Operations Manager

Job Description Job Description Salary: $62,000 - $68,000 DOQ About Bright Endeavors & New Moms Bright Endeavors is a social enterprise of New Moms, a nonprofit organization rooted in the belief that every young family has the potential to thrive. Through paid job training and holistic support, we partner with young moms as they build strong foundations for their families. Every candle we pour lights the path forward for a brighter future.

Position Summary Bright Endeavors is seeking a strategic and hands-on Operations Manager to oversee the daily production, distribution, inventory, and supply chain operations of our growing soy candle and home fragrance social enterprise. This role is responsible for ensuring that production, fulfillment, and quality goals are consistently met while maintaining efficient systems and strong team leadership. The Operations Manager partners closely with production staff and the finance team to ensure accurate inventory management, cost control, and operational sustainability.

This is a highly collaborative role that blends people leadership, systems thinking, and hands-on operational execution all in support of a mission-driven workforce development model. Location: Bright Endeavors (627 N Albany Ave) Schedule: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, M-F 8:30am-4:30pm Starting Salary: $62,000 - $68,000 DOQ What a Day Might Look Like Your day might begin by reviewing production and shipping plans, ensuring your team is set up to meet daily goals. Youll check inventory levels, troubleshoot any operational challenges, and connect with Operations Coordinators to ensure the production floor is running smoothly.

Throughout the day, you may move between reviewing order fulfillment, coordinating with the Finance Manager on inventory and cost tracking, and connecting with vendors to manage supply needs. Youll also spend time coaching team members, supporting their development, and ensuring systems and processes are being followed effectively. During busy production seasons, you may step in to support hands-on work, ensuring deadlines are met without compromising quality.

Youll also continuously look for opportunities to improve workflows, strengthen systems, and enhance overall operational efficiency. Key Responsibilities Manufacturing, Distribution & Warehouse Operations Oversee daily manufacturing, shipping, and receiving operations, ensuring production and fulfillment goals are met Manage production schedules and monitor performance using MRP systems Coordinate customer orders and invoicing with Sales and Finance partners Maintain equipment, safety standards, and efficient use of production and warehouse space Inventory, Costing & Supply Chain Management Manage purchasing, inventory tracking, and material flow Ensure inventory accuracy and alignment with cost of goods sold (COGS) Monitor product costs, resolve discrepancies, and identify margin improvements Partner with Finance on forecasting and vendor management Lead inventory counts, audits, and reconciliation processes Systems, Documentation & Continuous Improvement Develop and maintain SOPs and operational systems Improve inventory, warehouse, and production processes, including barcode systems Train staff on tools, systems, and workflows Coaching, Training & Supervision Supervise, coach, and develop Operations Coordinators and production staff Support scheduling, coverage, and ongoing performance development Ensure effective training for staff and volunteers Youll Thrive in This Role If You Are: A strong operator who enjoys building and improving systems Comfortable balancing strategic oversight with hands-on execution A confident leader who enjoys coaching, developing, and supporting teams Highly organized and detail-oriented, especially with data, inventory, and processes A proactive problem-solver who can navigate challenges in a fast-paced environment Energized by mission-driven work and social enterprise models Passionate about creating efficient systems that support both people and performance Qualifications Bachelors degree required, OR Associates degree with 5+ years of experience, OR high school diploma/equivalent with 7+ years of related experience 3+ years of experience in manufacturing, operations, or supply chain management 3+ years of experience supervising staff, volunteers, or interns Experience with MRP and/or inventory management systems preferred Experience with Shopify, Katana, or similar platforms preferred Experience with Microsoft Office and QuickBooks preferred Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills in a fast-paced environment OSHA 40-hour certification (or willingness to obtain post-hire) Forklift certification (or willingness to obtain post-hire) Other Requirements Valid drivers license, safe driving record, and insurance; Daily access to a reliable vehicle Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends as needed Work Environment: This position requires the ability to stand or sit for up to eight hours, walk up and down stairs, and lift or move items up to 5060 pounds (or perform these tasks with reasonable accommodation). The production environment may include varying noise levels and temperature conditions typical of a manufacturing setting.

Benefits & Perks:We care about the well-being of our team and are proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including: Medical insurance with generous employer contribution Dental and vision insurance Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Short-term disability, long-term disability, and life insurance 100% employer-paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for free counseling and resources Generous paid time off, as well as 15 paid holidays and half days on Fridays during the summer 403b retirement plan with employer match Pre-tax transportation benefits Professional development support Free spiritual direction services