Operations Specialist

LEO is seeking a highly organized, people-centered professional to serve as its Operations Specialist—a role central to building the systems, processes, and culture that enable rigorous research and meaningful impact. This position ensures that LEO’s internal operations are effective, compliant, and aligned with its mission, supporting staff, students, and leadership so the organization can focus on improving lives through evidence-based solutions to poverty. 

Who we are

The Wilson Sheehan Lab for Economic Opportunities (LEO) at the University of Notre Dame is a research center dedicated to reducing poverty by partnering with service providers to conduct rigorous impact evaluations. LEO’s mission is to improve lives through evidence-based programs and policies, empowering decision-makers with data that drives lasting social change.

As LEO has grown, so has the importance of strong internal operations. From personnel processes and training to space management and special programs, the Operations Specialist plays a vital role in sustaining a high-performing and mission-driven organization. 

Who we need

The Operations Specialist will be a trusted partner to LEO leadership and staff, responsible for developing, implementing, and stewarding the operational infrastructure that supports LEO’s people and programs. Reporting to the Associate Director of Administration, this role applies independent judgement, strong project management skills, and a deep understanding of organizational operations to manage complex processes across personnel, training, business operations, and office management. 

The ideal candidate is a proactive problem solver who enjoys building systems, improving processes, and fostering a positive work environment. They are comfortable balancing project management with hands-on execution and thrive in a collaborative, mission-driven setting. 

The Operations Specialist’s top priorities will be

Personnel & Workforce Operations  

• Develop, implement, and manage all processes related to the employee lifecycle, including relationship building, position development and posting, selection, onboarding, separation, and workforce planning. 
• Ensure personnel processes align with university policies and best practices while meeting LEO’s operations needs. 
• Serve as a key point of contact for staff regarding operational and personnel-related processes.  

Training & Evaluation  

• Develop, coordinate, and implement training programs, speaker series, and workshops to enhance employee skills and knowledge. 
• Ensure training remains current with university practices, supports job-specific skill development, and builds understanding of LEO’s research and methodologies. 
• Project manage the university’s annual goal-setting and performance evaluation process across LEO, ensuring consistency, clarity, and timely completion. 

Organizational Engagement  

• Foster a positive, inclusive, and engaging work environment by promoting employee engagement initiatives and activities within LEO. 
• Support staff engagement with the College of Arts & Letters and the broader university community. 
• Partner with leadership to strengthen organizational culture and internal communication.  

Office & Space Management 

• Work closely with the College of Arts & letters to oversee the allocation, utilization, and management of LEO office space. 
• Manage day-to-day office operations and coordinate space-related projects, including renovations and relocations. 

Special Programs 

• Provide operational and programmatic support for LEO predoctoral research associates, postdoctoral research associates, and graduate students, from hiring plans to program development. 
• Facilitate LEO’s academic year student intern program, including communications, recruiting, hiring, onboarding, and workflow coordination.  

Qualifications

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree required. 
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in operations, human resources, business administration, or organizational management, preferably in a nonprofit, higher education, or mission-driven environment.

Required:

• Deep commitment to the missions of LEO and the University of Notre Dame.
• Demonstrated experience managing personnel processes, training initiatives, and operational workflows. 
• Strong project management, organizational, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously. 
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust and collaborate across teams. 
• High attention to detail and a continuous-improvement mindset. 

Preferred:

• Experience working within a university or higher education setting. 
• Familiarity with performance evaluation systems, workforce planning, or organizational engagement initiatives.