Design Operations Manager

Job Description

Founded in 1921, the Society for Science (Society), is a champion for science, dedicated to expanding scientific literacy, effective STEM education, and scientific research. Through its world-class competitions, including the Regeneron Science Talent Search, the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair and the Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge, and its award-winning magazines, Science News and Science News Explores, the Society, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) membership organization, is focused on promoting the understanding and appreciation of science and the vital role it plays in human advancement: to inform, education and inspire.Position Overview

The Design Operations Manager supports the Chief Design Officer by managing day-to-day operations, coordinating design projects and maintaining transparent workflows across the Design Department. This role ensures projects move smoothly from concept to completion while reinforcing process consistency and brand standards.

This is an exempt position.Primary Responsibilities

Manage the Design team's overall project calendar, milestones and task assignments using the department's project management system.

Coordinate daily workflows, monitor project status, manage stakeholder expectations and address resource needs or roadblocks.

Maintain transparent documentation and recordkeeping for all projects, ensuring consistent application of organizational policies and brand standards.

Provide responsive support to Society departments, helping plan and prioritize design projects to balance team workload and meet all milestones.

Serve as the first point of contact for project-related communication between the Design Department, internal stakeholders and external vendors.

Track and report on project progress, costs and timelines.

Maintain department credit card charges and produce monthly credit card report statements.

Work closely with vendors for estimates, invoicing, contracts and transferring files

Submit requests for payment for vendors, contractors and freelancers via SAP Concur Solutions.

Support the Chief Design Officer in optimizing team efficiency and improving operational systems.

Train internal and external stakeholders in the use of the Design Department's project management tools and processes.

Obtain vendor quotes, process check requests and invoices and maintain accurate financial records.

Assist in coordinating photo shoots and live event support in partnership with the Art Director.

Maintain confidentiality of all records and correspondence.

Contribute to departmental documentation and continuous improvement of workflows and procedures.

Perform other duties as assigned.Qualifications

Job Specific

Excellent written, analytical, problem-solving and verbal communication skills

Ability to set priorities, meet deadlines and work independently

Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple priorities

Ability to work in a team environment

Motivated, self-directed, results-oriented, and customer-focused

Detail-oriented and possesses a desire for quality

Experience in working on distributed or remote teams

Required qualifications for all Society positions

Affinity for the mission of the Society for Science

Exceptional communications skills, both written and verbal

Ability to develop rapport with colleagues and external clientsRequired Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree required; degree in design, communications or a related field preferred

4–6 years of experience in design operations, creative project management or a related role

Experience with Asana or similar project management platforms

Proficiency in Microsoft Office and working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite

Familiarity with SAP Concur Solutions or similar accounts payable system

Strong organizational, communication, and writing skills with attention to detail

Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and vendor relationships

Financial acumen for tracking budgets, invoices and cost allocations

Ability to copy edit and proof materials for accuracyWork Environment

This is a hybrid position based in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. While performing the duties of this job, the employee usually works in an office setting located near the Dupont Circle Metro station.Position Type and Expected Hours

This is a full-time, non-exempt position with a 37.5-hour work week. Normal business hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM Eastern, with core hours of 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM Eastern. This role requires light travel to the Society's science research competitions and other events.Salary

The salary range is $78,503 – $88,316.Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands and fingers to operate a computer and other office equipment.How to Apply

To be considered for this position please upload a professional resume and cover letter.

Please apply through Applicant Pro.Additional Eligibility Qualifications

Society for Science has mandated the COVID-19 vaccine for employees, as applicable. Exceptions to the vaccine requirement may be provided to individuals for religious beliefs or medical reasons.Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover every duty, responsibility and activity that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.EEO Statement

Society for Science is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

The Society is committed to equal employment opportunity. In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals, the Society does not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on the basis of veteran status, race, color, religion, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, ancestry, national origin, disability, personal appearance, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, age and/or any other categories protected by the laws of the United States or the District of Columbia.

Job Posted by ApplicantPro

Full-time

Hybrid remote