Operations Manager

Operations Manager – 2025

Groundwork Lawrence (GWL), a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, has been making change happen in Greater Lawrence, Massachusetts since 1999. Through community engagement, environmental and open space improvements, fresh food access, youth education, and employment initiatives, GWL creates the building blocks of a healthy community and empowers residents to improve their quality of life. GWL achieves results by engaging the whole community – residents, youth, nonprofits, government, and businesses – in the planning and realization of projects. With this collaborative approach, GWL ensures that all stakeholders are mutually invested in the outcomes, the key to stable neighborhoods and sustainable change.

GWL’s mission and operations are premised on the understanding that environmental conditions are inextricably linked to the economic and social health of a neighborhood. Therefore, GWL is committed to “changing places, changing lives, and changing systems” through on-the-ground projects that help to transform local communities.  GWL’s mission is “to bring about the sustained regeneration, improvement, and management of the physical environment by developing community-based partnerships which empower people, businesses, and organizations to promote environmental, economic, and social well-being.” 

About the Position:

The Operations Manager is responsible for leading a variety of administrative and operational activities that support the strategic goals and ensure the organizational effectiveness, efficiency, and smooth functioning of Groundwork Lawrence. The responsibilities include all aspects of office management, information system functions, and vehicle management. Reporting to the Executive Assistant, the Operations Manager is responsible for day-to-day office operations and administrative tasks for Information Systems, provides administrative support for the organization, and assists with external events. The Operations Manager is a leader who makes decisions within the scope of work assignments, prioritizes work independently, and collaborates with other staff to provide services in support of GWL’s projects and programs.

Essential Functions

• Point of contact for organization - greet visitors; interact frequently with vendors, service providers, and donors; respond to inquiries by email and phone.
• Office management - manage mail, purchase office supplies and equipment, act as liaison with vendors, maintain office equipment, coordinate meeting space, provide meeting set-up assistance, act as the point person for insurance issues, record retention management, and manage landlord/tenant relationship.
• Maintain supply room and GWL storage spaces
• Manage and maintain staff room needs (food, drinks, etc.) daily
• Oversee staff kitchen/equipment, commercial kitchen and ensure staff refrigerators are emptied weekly
• Manage GWL vehicle records & maintenance in conjunction with users
• Information Systems (IS) administrative tasks – manage and coordinate GWL’s outsourced IT vendor and be the point of contact for GWL’s IT systems and equipment.
• Set up conference rooms with audio, visual, and conference call needs.
• Attend GWL events as required.
• Leads on staff appreciation including tracking birthdays.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Must share a passion for Groundwork’s values and vision.
• 2-3 years of professional experience or an associate degree.
• Bilingual in English/Spanish.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills.
• Experience performing a variety of administrative tasks.
• Experience supporting teams.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Flexible, nimble, able to juggle different tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Willingness to learn new skills as needed for the position.
• Be proactive and make day-to-day decisions within the scope of work assignments and be able to prioritize work independently.
• Demonstrate sensitivity in handling confidential information.
• Does not supervise any staff, but will supervise volunteers, interns, contractors, and/or vendors.
• Willingness to travel (locally) and work evenings and weekends on a limited basis.
• Willingness to work at external events, outdoors and indoors.
• Work environment may involve minor physical exertion such as moving of materials, files, and boxes.
• Multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
• Commitment to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and belonging in the workplace.
• Experience using Microsoft Office programs and the Windows operating environment.
• Experience organizing time and managing diverse activities to meet deadlines.
• Experience working and communicating with a wide range of people.
• Ability to work independently to develop and execute priorities as well as work together in a dynamic team environment.

Compensation: Starting salary range is $54,500 - $58,000, commensurate with experience.  Employee benefits include payment of 75% of health and dental insurance, a matching 403(b) retirement plan, fresh food benefit, long-term disability and life insurance, and excellent paid time off benefits. GWL provides wonderful opportunities for advancement and growth within the organization. This position reports to the Executive Assistant and is an exempt, full-time position requiring some evening and weekend hours. 

Hiring Policy: GWL is an equal-opportunity employer.  We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identification, or any legally protected status.  City of Lawrence residents are strongly encouraged to apply.

To apply: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.  Please submit a letter of interest describing your relevant experience and interests and your resume to: Groundwork Lawrence, Attn: Human Resources, 50 Island Street, Suite 101, Lawrence, MA 01840, fax: (978) 974 – 0882, or [email protected].