Manager of Operations

Manager of Operations & Community Engagement

Location:

East Garfield Park, Chicago (on-site)

Reports To:

Executive Director  - TBD (May have dotted lines to various Directors)

Salary:

$60,000–$65,000 annually, full-time

Start Date:

Fall 2025

About BandWith

BandWith is a Chicago-based nonprofit dedicated to providing lasting access to instrumental and vocal music instruction in underserved communities. Our mission is to empower youth through music education, ensemble performance, and mentorship.

We are entering an exciting new chapter — moving into our first permanent home in East Garfield Park, where we will expand programs that connect music, youth development, and community wellness. As part of our
founding on-site team

, the Manager of Operations & Community Engagement will help bring our new space and community vision to life.

About the Role

The Manager of Operations & Community Engagement serves as both the
community face

of BandWith's new facility and the
hub of its daily operations

. This person ensures our programs, families, and partners experience a welcoming, well-organized, and responsive environment — from the front desk to financial systems.

This role blends
hospitality and systems-thinking

, managing day-to-day operations, student registration, and community engagement while supporting key staff across the organization. The ideal candidate is tech-savvy, highly organized, and energized by connecting with people.

Key Responsibilities
Operations & Administrative Management (50%)

• Oversee daily building operations in coordination with the Facilities Manager and Executive Director.
• Manage vendor relationships, scheduling, and compliance requirements.
• Process invoices, pay bills, and send wires; assist with payroll coordination.
• Maintain and refine digital systems and tools (Gusto, Notion, etc).
• Complete and manage CPS vendor registration and follow-up processes in collaboration with the Executive Director.
• Track organizational processes through checklists and an operations manual; identify opportunities for improvement.
• Support administrative and scheduling needs for the Executive Director, Director of Programs, and Director of Development.

Front Desk, Student Intake & Registration (25%)

• Serve as the main point of contact for students, families, and visitors.
• Manage front desk operations, check-in systems, and space reservations.
• Lead student registration, intake, and data collection; ensure accurate record-keeping in digital systems.
• Coordinate schedules and training for front desk assistants, interns, and volunteers.
• Field and respond to family questions and communicate program updates or schedule changes.

Community Engagement, Storytelling & Hospitality (25%)

• Supervise front-of-house operations and ensure a welcoming, professional environment for all visitors.
• Coordinate community events such as open houses, volunteer days, and intern showcases.
• Partner with development and communications staff to gather and share impact stories about students, interns, and alumni.
• Build relationships with community and corporate partners that advance BandWith's workforce and engagement goals.
• Support recruitment and outreach for student and intern programs.

Qualifications

• 2–4 years of experience in office management, school administration, nonprofit operations, or community engagement.
• Strong organizational and project management skills; comfortable managing multiple priorities.
• Proficiency with digital tools and administrative systems, and a quick learner and adopter of new systems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Warm, professional presence with families, students, and community partners.
• Demonstrated reliability, follow-through, and attention to detail.
• Excitement for being part of a
  founding on-site team

and helping build a vibrant, community-centered arts space.

Work Environment & Schedule

• This position is
  fully on-site

at BandWith's new facility in East Garfield Park (134 S. California Avenue).
- Some evening or weekend hours may be required for community events or performances.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range:
  $60,000–$65,000 annually

, commensurate with experience.
- Full-time exempt position with health insurance and paid time off.
- Opportunities for professional growth as the organization expands.

Note:

Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every competency or experience listed. We encourage you to apply if this role excites you and you believe you can demonstrate the skills and experience to be a strong candidate.

To Apply, please fill out and submit this
Google Form
. It will ask you to attach a resume and answer four short answer questions in lieu of a cover letter. Please remember to submit the form once complete.