Director of Operations; SY

Director of Operations

Lead Charter School LEAD 201 - Newark, New Jersey

Available location:
Newark, New Jersey (Open in Google Maps).

This job is also posted in Lead Charter School.

Job : 5662150

Final date to receive applications: Posted until filled

Posted: Apr 22, 2026 4:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date: Immediately

THE ROLE

LEAD Charter School seeks an exceptional Director of Operations to join our mission-driven community. The Director of Operations (DOO) is responsible for performing administrative and supervisory work in the non-academic operations of the school. This includes budget preparation, financial management and reporting, data reporting and compliance, purchasing, event planning and management, student transportation, overseeing the food service program, office staff, nurse staff, school safety, facilities, and enrollment.

The DOO works to ensure the operational success of the organization, ensure contractual and regulatory requirements are met, and that resources are managed effectively.

The mission of LEAD is to enable students ages 16-21 in grades 9-12 to master essential skills for success in careers, postsecondary education, and community leadership within a global society. We implement the Newark Opportunity Youth Network (NOYN) school model, supporting the unique academic and non-academic needs of students who have disengaged from traditional schooling. At LEAD Charter School, we are a vibrant school community that holds an unwavering belief in the power of young people to transform their lives and their communities.

We are dedicated practitioners of research-based youth development practices and systems, ensuring every student receives a tailored, personalized, and strengths-based learning experience. As passionate advocates of opportunity youth, we strive to provide the necessary support and opportunities for our students to succeed.

• "Being at LEAD has accelerated my career trajectory in ways that I could never imagine. I feel valued, supported, and empowered."
• 100% of LEAD staff feel they are trusted as professionals.
• 96% of LEAD staff feel supported in their work and professional development.
• 95% of LEAD staff feel they're treated with respect.
• 91% of LEAD staff say supervisors encourage feedback and suggestions.

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Master’s Degree preferred.
• Minimum five (5) years of experience in school operations, finance, and/or technology for youth development and/or education organizations.
• Commitment to LEAD design and philosophy and unwavering belief that all students can excel.
• Able to work well with limited oversight and direction.
• Ability to develop an organization-wide strategy for operational excellence.
• Strong management skills, with the emotional intelligence to work effectively with diverse leaders and leadership teams, developing and enhancing their capabilities.
• Skilled at pushing staff perspectives and approaches to always focus first on students’ needs.
• Effective problem-solving skills, with an ability to creatively solve seemingly intractable problems while inspiring staff to do the same.
• Demonstrated leadership skills in the areas of operations, finance, facilities, data and technology.
• Robust analytical skills, with an ability to use quantitative and qualitative data to drive results.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including use of productivity software.
• Required criminal history background check and proof of U.S. citizenship or legal resident status.

• Professional Development: Weekly half-day sessions tailored to support your professional growth.
• Career Advancement: Opportunities to develop and lead school initiatives and engage in career planning for growth and trajectory.
• Supportive Environment: Work with a dedicated, talented, and supportive staff and empowered school leaders.
• Impact: Contribute to a mission that transforms equity through opportunity for young people in Newark.
• Career Bonus: Yearly Resigning Bonus

• Paid Time Off + Summer Vacation
• Health/Vision/Dental Benefits
• Enrollment in NJ Pension
• Health Equity…