Operations Manager

Job Description

OPERATIONS MANAGER

Aurora, CO

$85,000 – $108,000 annually

ABOUT HEATHER GARDENS

Heather Gardens Association (HGA) is a vibrant 55+ residential community located in Aurora, Colorado. We are committed to providing exceptional service and maintaining a welcoming, well-managed environment for our residents. Our team members are dedicated professionals who value collaboration, integrity, and a shared sense of purpose in supporting a thriving community.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Operations Manager is a key leadership role responsible for overseeing Maintenance, Painting, Custodial, Contracts/Special Projects, and Roads & Grounds operations across the community.

This position partners closely with the General Manager to drive operational excellence, ensure high-quality service delivery, and support long-term strategic planning. The Operations Manager serves as a trusted leader, guiding multiple departments, developing staff, and ensuring that community standards are consistently met.

This role is designed to evolve into a General Manager-level position and may serve as acting General Manager when needed.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Operational Leadership & Strategic Planning

Provide overall leadership and direction for Maintenance, Painting, Custodial, Contracts/Special Projects, and Roads & Grounds operations across the community

Develop and implement short- and long-term operational plans aligned with organizational goals and Board priorities

Translate strategic initiatives into actionable work plans, timelines, and measurable outcomes

Continuously assess operational performance and adjust priorities, staffing, and resources to meet evolving needs

Budgeting, Financial Oversight & Resource Management

Partner with the General Manager and Finance to develop and manage annual operating and capital budgets

Monitor financial performance, identify variances, and implement cost-control strategies

Evaluate and prioritize expenditures to ensure alignment with operational goals and financial sustainability

Support reserve planning and long-term capital improvement forecasting

Review and negotiate vendor contracts to ensure service quality, cost-effectiveness, and accountability

Leadership, Team Development & Accountability

Lead, coach, and develop department managers and supervisors across multiple operational functions

Establish clear performance expectations and drive accountability through consistent performance management

Partner with Human Resources on recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, and retention strategies

Promote a culture of professionalism, teamwork, safety, and continuous improvement

Identify and develop future leaders, supporting succession planning across departments

Maintenance, Infrastructure & Asset Management

Oversee the maintenance, repair, and long-term sustainability of all buildings, infrastructure, and community assets

Ensure effective work order management, prioritization, and timely completion of tasks

Monitor preventative maintenance programs and ensure adherence to operational standards

Ensure compliance with all applicable codes, regulations, and safety requirements

Coordinate and oversee contractors, vendors, and third-party service providers

Resident Experience & Service Delivery

Establish and reinforce a high standard of customer service across all operational departments

Ensure timely, professional, and effective response to resident service requests and concerns

Support teams in resolving complex or escalated issues with a solutions-focused approach

Maintain alignment with community standards, governing documents, and operational expectations

Communication, Reporting & Organizational Alignment

Provide regular operational updates, insights, and recommendations to the General Manager

Prepare and present reports on performance metrics, budgets, and operational initiatives

Identify risks, challenges, and opportunities, and proactively communicate solutions

Support cross-functional collaboration to ensure alignment across departments

Board & Committee Engagement

Support the General Manager in preparing operational reports and recommendations for Board and committee meetings

Attend and present at Board and committee meetings as required

Provide subject matter expertise on maintenance, infrastructure, and operational matters

Develop working knowledge of governing documents, policies, and regulatory considerations

Risk Management, Safety & Emergency Response

Lead and support response to operational incidents, emergencies, and property-related issues

Promote and enforce safety programs, policies, and risk mitigation practices

Coordinate with emergency services, vendors, and internal teams during critical situations

Support insurance claims processes, including documentation and vendor coordination

Executive Leadership & Decision-Making

Exercise independent judgment in managing day-to-day operations and prioritizing organizational resources

Serve as a trusted advisor to the General Manager on operational strategy and execution

Act as the General Manager in their absence, with delegated authority as appropriate

Contribute to executive-level decision-making, long-term planning, and organizational leadership initiatives

QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Facilities Management, Construction Management, or related field (preferred)

5–10+ years of progressive experience in:

Operations management

Facilities, maintenance, or infrastructure oversight

Multi-department leadership

Experience managing multiple teams and operational functions

Experience in community association, property management, municipal, or similar environment preferred

Experience managing operating budgets and capital planning

Experience overseeing vendor services and contracts

Skills

Strong leadership and team development capabilities

Operational planning and execution across multiple departments

Financial acumen (budgeting, forecasting, cost control)

Knowledge of building systems, maintenance operations, and grounds management

Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills

Ability to manage competing priorities in a dynamic environment

Excellent communication and stakeholder management (staff, residents, Board)

Ability to operate at both strategic and hands-on levels

Certifications (Preferred)

CMCA (Certified Manager of Community Associations) – required within 12 months of hire

AMS or PCAM preferred

BENEFITS

Heather Gardens offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package that begins the 1st of the month following 30 days of employment, including:

Medical Insurance – Multiple plan options through Aetna & Kaiser

Health Savings Account (HSA)

Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

Dental and Vision Coverage

Employer-Paid Life Insurance & Disability Coverage (with optional buy-up plans)

401(k) Retirement Plan with 5% company match

Paid Holidays

Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)

MetLife Voluntary Benefits

Pet Wellness Benefits

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Uniform & Shoe Allowance (for eligible positions)

We support work-life balance and provide resources designed to support your health, financial security, and overall well-being.

WHY JOIN HGA?

High-impact role with visible results

Work directly with executive leadership and Board

Opportunity to shape long-term capital strategy

Stable, mission-driven organization with strong community values

Full-time