Director of Operations

Come join the fun and make a difference with Discovery Cube! For over 25 years, we've been inspiring kids and educators alike with our hands-on science education initiatives and interactive exhibits. Our four core initiatives - STEM proficiency, early childhood education, healthy living, and environmental stewardship - are future-forward in promoting life-long-learning. Plus, with our immersive campuses in Orange County and Los Angeles, as well as our educational outreach programs, there are endless opportunities for learning exploration. As a prominent advocate for modern science education, we believe in empowering our learners with real-world applications and spotlighting science as a solution and force for good. Don't miss out on the excitement and join our important mission today!

Position:

The Director of Operations will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day administrative and operational functions of Discovery Cube Los Angeles, ensuring efficient and effective support of the organization’s mission to inspire and engage children through science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. The Director of Operations will work closely with the Executive Director and leadership team to develop and implement operational strategies, optimize resources, and enhance organizational systems to maximize impact. In addition, the Director of Operations will lead the execution of new projects and initiatives that expand the center’s offerings, improve infrastructure, and enhance the visitor experience. This position reports to the Executive Director.

Responsibilities:

• Operational Leadership:
• Oversee daily operations, including facilities management, visitor services, operations-related IT systems, safety protocols, and people.
• Ensure operational excellence by implementing policies and procedures that enhance efficiency and effectiveness across all departments.
• Develop and maintain systems for tracking and reporting on operational performance metrics.
• New Projects & Initiatives:
• Lead the planning and execution of new initiatives that align with the Cube’s strategic goals, including expansions, capital improvements, and special programs.
• Collaborate with various departments to integrate new programs, exhibits, events, and activities into the operational framework.
• Manage timelines, budgets, and resources for new projects, ensuring they are delivered on time and within scope.
• Foster innovation by identifying and implementing new technologies, processes, or partnerships that support the Cube’s mission.
• Staff Management:
• Lead, manage, and develop managers within Guest Services, Retail, Café, Volunteers, and Memberships team, providing guidance and mentorship to ensure a high level of staff performance and engagement.
• Support recruitment, onboarding, training, and development processes for staff and volunteers.
• Ensure compliance with labor laws, safety regulations, and organizational policies.
• Budgeting and Financial Oversight:
• Collaborate with Executive Director and Finance to develop and manage the annual operational budget.
• Monitor operational expenses to ensure cost-effective management of resources.
• Provide oversight of contracts, vendor relationships, and purchasing to ensure alignment with budgetary goals.
• Visitor Experience:
• Work with the program and exhibit teams to ensure a seamless visitor experience from arrival to departure, aligning with the center’s educational mission.
• Manage the maintenance and improvement of the physical space, ensuring a safe, welcoming, and accessible environment for visitors and staff.
• Develop strategies to improve visitor satisfaction and address feedback.
• Strategic Planning and Partnerships:
• Collaborate with leadership to contribute to the development of long-term strategies for organizational growth and sustainability.
• Identify and cultivate partnerships with community organizations, vendors, and other stakeholders to enhance operational capacity.
• Compliance and Risk Management:
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations, including health and safety standards.
• Manage risk mitigation efforts and develop contingency plans to ensure continuity of operations.
• Serve as the point of contact for insurance, legal, and regulatory matters.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Nonprofit Management, Operations, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in operations management, preferably in a non-profit, educational, or museum environment.
• Demonstrated experience in managing teams, facilities, and budgets.
• Strong leadership and decision-making skills, with a focus on team development and problem-solving.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with technology systems (IT, ticketing, CRM) and facility management is a plus.
• Must be available to work a flexible schedule, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays, based on operational needs. 

What’s In It For You:

• Medical, dental and vision insurance
• Optional supplemental insurance coverage
• 401K with up to 4% match after one year for full-time employees
• 14 Free general admission tickets per year
• 4 Bubblefest tickets plus admission
• 10% of on-site dining and shopping discount
• Employee discounts through ADP
• Accrued paid time off for full-time employees
• 10 paid company holidays

Discovery Cube provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.