Operations Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a prominent international humanitarian non-governmental organization (INGO) founded in 1933 at the behest of Albert Einstein. The IRC operates in over 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities, focusing on responding to the world's most severe humanitarian crises. The organization aims to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and power to individuals affected by conflict and disaster. With a mission to deliver lasting impact, the IRC employs a diverse workforce dedicated to helping millions regain control of their futures and strengthen their communities. The IRC is recognized as one of the largest INGOs globally, emphasizing a commitment to service, accountability, integrity, and quality in its operations.

Job Overview:
The Operations Specialist plays a crucial role in supporting the operational functions of the IRC, ensuring that administrative support is effectively provided to create a compliant and well-functioning environment for staff, clients, and partners. This position demands strong organizational skills, creative problem-solving abilities, personal initiative, and the capacity to thrive in a fast-paced, multicultural setting. Reporting directly to the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Executive Director, the Operations Specialist is expected to manage various operational tasks, including safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security needs, information technology management, supply chain coordination, and facilities management. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to maintaining high standards of operational efficiency.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Operations Specialist is responsible for a variety of key functions, including but not limited to:

• Safety and Security (S&S): Addressing day-to-day safety and security-related needs to ensure a secure environment for all staff and clients.
• Information Technology (IT): Managing IT and communications infrastructure, tracking hardware and software issues, and collaborating with HQ and Cluster level operational staff to resolve internet or telecommunications disruptions.
• Supply Chain: Ordering supplies and equipment in compliance with financial guidelines, coordinating repairs, and managing office inventory, including tracking and reporting on asset movement.
• Facilities Management: Assisting the Executive Director with office equipment leases, coordinating repairs and improvements, and supporting workspace allocation and employee lifecycle needs.
• Event Coordination: Planning and organizing office events and meetings, ensuring smooth operations and effective communication across teams.
• Additional Duties: Performing other related tasks as assigned by management to support the overall operational goals of the organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Operations Specialist position should possess a minimum of 1 year of experience in administrative or operational support roles. They must demonstrate strong organizational and time-management skills, the ability to follow established procedures, and manage multiple tasks effectively. Basic IT troubleshooting skills are essential, along with clear and professional communication abilities. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite is required, and candidates should be capable of working both independently and collaboratively within a team environment. A commitment to the IRC's core values of service, accountability, integrity, and quality is also necessary for this role.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and directly related experience is required for the Operations Specialist position. This educational background ensures that candidates have a foundational understanding of the principles and practices relevant to operational support in a humanitarian context.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have at least 1 year of relevant experience in administrative or operational support roles. This experience should demonstrate the candidate's ability to manage tasks effectively, work in a team-oriented environment, and contribute to the operational success of an organization.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. While not required, prior experience coordinating volunteers or interns is preferred, which may indicate a beneficial skill set for the role.

Additional Notes:
The Operations Specialist position is based in a standard office environment, with occasional evening and weekend work required. The role involves supporting teams across two Iowa offices located in Des Moines and Iowa City, necessitating regular travel between these locations as determined by management needs. The compensation for this position ranges from $21.00 to $22.80 per hour, with variations based on factors such as the labor market, job type, internal equity, and budget considerations. The IRC is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion, and provides reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the application and interview process. Additionally, the IRC offers a comprehensive benefits package, including sick days, paid time off, medical and dental insurance, a retirement savings plan, and an Employee Assistance Program.