Operations Director Fellowship

Company Description

Uncommon Schools is a nonprofit network of high-performing public charter schools dedicated to providing an exceptional K-12 education in economically disadvantaged communities. We are committed to closing the college completion gap and preparing every student for college and beyond. Our students consistently exceed national benchmarks, showcasing our commitment to their success. We invest deeply in our educators, providing weekly coaching, feedback, and professional development to ensure excellence in teaching and leadership. Join us to work hard, do good, and make a lasting difference!

Job Description

At Uncommon Schools, we recognize that exceptional schools require not only outstanding instruction but also exemplary operations. Our operations leaders are dedicated to ensuring that faculty can focus their energy on achieving results for students. They develop, implement, and enhance systems that address the needs of our school community. As service-oriented leaders, they problem-solve, share best practices across campuses, and respond to urgent situations. They collaborate to cultivate an academic and cultural environment that supports our ultimate objective: ensuring every student has the opportunity to earn a college degree.

The Operations Director Fellowship is a full-time role designed to prepare you to become a Director of Operations (DOO) at an Uncommon school. As a DOO, you will partner with the Principal to ensure every student receives an exemplary education.

The DOO Fellowship emphasizes four core elements, aligned with the competencies expected of Uncommon leaders, to grow your capacity as an effective DOO:

• Professional Development: Attend a series of workshops throughout the Fellowship, focused on leadership competencies relevant to DOOs.
• Experiential Learning: Engage in individualized feedback and coaching through various experiential learning opportunities, including weekly deliverables, on-site coaching, and practice clinics involving case studies and problem-solving exercises.
• Practical Application: Gain hands-on experience at an existing Uncommon school, actively participating in operations and leading projects. You'll conduct observations, complete necessary deliverables, and step into the DOO role for a 4-6 week Immersion with the Principal.
• Reflective Discourse: Participate in structured reflective discussions during in-person sessions to share experiences and insights. You will also develop a reflective practice, documenting your learning and creating actionable growth plans.

Qualifications

• Strong commitment to the mission of Uncommon Schools and to improving students' lives inside and outside the school environment.
• Proven ability to effectively manage and prioritize time and tasks with a systems-thinking approach.
• Adaptability to thrive in fast-paced environments, working both independently and collaboratively.
• Skillful in navigating ambiguous situations to arrive at solutions.
• A proactive and strategic problem-solver, capable of juggling multiple priorities.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities with various stakeholders, including educators, students, families, and colleagues.
• Proficient in difficult conversations conducted respectfully.
• Strong computer skills, particularly with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Access).
• Commitment to self-reflection and continuous professional development, viewing all experiences as learning opportunities.
• School-based or educational experience is preferred, along with any prior management experience.
• Required Experience:
• 4+ years of professional work experience.
• Minimum of 1 year in operations leadership (K-12 school operations preferred).
• At least 1 year of experience in coaching or managing others.
• Experience in project planning and executing large-scale projects.
• A Bachelor's degree is required.

Additional Information

Our people are what make us Uncommon. We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits that support the health, wellness, and financial needs of our staff and their families.

Compensation

The salary range for this position is between $108,000 to $114,500. Most candidates who meet the outlined qualifications will receive an offer of $108,000, considering factors like relevant experience and certifications.

Benefits

• Generous paid time off, including sick leave, holidays, and 10 weeks of paid breaks (Spring, Winter, and Summer).
• Best-in-class training and professional development opportunities.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, along with pre-tax flexible spending accounts.
• Participation in the New Jersey Pension program.
• Paid leave of absence options (parental, medical, disability, etc.).
• Mental health support and wellness benefits.

At Uncommon Schools, we believe in fostering a supportive and nurturing environment that enables our students, staff, and community to thrive. We are dedicated to building a diverse team that reflects the communities we serve, with a significant representation of people of color in our workforce. As an equal opportunity employer, we promote inclusivity and prohibit discrimination based on any characteristic protected by law. If you need any reasonable accommodations during the hiring process or while performing job functions, please contact our recruitment team.