About the Opportunity
Job Summary
The Operations Manager - Safety Programs plays a vital role in leading day-to-day operations, owning compliance obligations, and driving key process improvement initiatives. This position serves as the operational and organizational backbone for the Office of Academic Research Safety (OARS), managing everything from customer-facing services and co-op student programs to digital platforms and compliance systems. The ideal candidate will balance strong organizational skills with a systems-thinking mindset, exercising independent judgment and strategic leadership to shape the direction and effectiveness of OARS operations.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in business, operations, safety management, or related field
5+ years of experience in operations management, program leadership, or a related role, with a demonstrated track record of meeting deadlines and driving results
Proven ability to lead cross-functional projects and manage competing priorities with minimal oversight
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a process improvement orientation
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work effectively across all levels of the organization
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Teams and Excel
Customer service orientation with a professional demeanor
Preferred Qualifications
Knowledge of compliance, safety programs, or regulatory requirements
Familiarity with laboratory or research environments
Experience with ticketing or operational management systems (ServiceNow or similar)
Key Responsibilities & Accountabilities
1) Program Operations & Strategic Projects (50%)
Develop, implement, and maintain operational policies, procedures, and standards that support departmental needs and institutional objectives
Partner with subject matter experts to improve respiratory protection and lab coat programs, including data analysis, supply chain management, and performance evaluation
Establish and manage reporting frameworks to communicate safety-related metrics and KPIs to leadership and stakeholders
Identify, prioritize, and drive process improvement initiatives across OARS business operations
Serve as project lead for cross-functional organizational efficiency efforts, facilitating stakeholder communications and conducting post-project reviews
Translate operational insights into strategic recommendations for OARS leadership
Provide administrative and operational support, as needed, to OARS projects and initiatives
2) System Management (25%)
Lead systems-related projects from initiation through implementation, monitoring risks and delivering against milestones
Develop and maintain centralized systems for equipment and asset tracking, ensuring adherence to maintenance and calibration schedules
Improve and maintain organizational systems for OARS digital platforms and Teams workspaces
3) Operational Support & Customer (10%)
Serve as primary point of contact for general front desk customer interactions, including fit-tests and supply pickups
Manage OARS inbox correspondence and incoming phone calls
Provide administrative and operational support, as needed, to OARS projects and initiatives
4) Procurement & Contract Management (10%)
Manage vendor relationships and contracts related to safety program operations, including invoice oversight and MSA coordination
Develop and execute procurement strategy to optimize cost, quality, and service delivery
5) Engagement & Team Building (5%)
Lead centralized onboarding and offboarding processes for co-ops and staff
Coordinate end-of-year activities to highlight co-op projects and successes
Provide administrative and operational support for team-building activities and retreats
Position Type
General Administration
Additional Information
Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.
Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information.
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Compensation Grade/Pay Type:
109S
Expected Hiring Range:
$67,855.00 - $95,845.00
With the pay range(s) shown above, the starting salary will depend on several factors, which may include your education, experience, location, knowledge and expertise, and skills as well as a pay comparison to similarly-situated employees already in the role. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and are subject to change.