How to Write an Operations Manager Job Description

A clearly defined job description empowers an operations manager for maximum effectiveness.

An operations manager job description is a crucial piece in the process of corporate efficiency. An operations manager is a key hire for a small business or large corporation since it will be the operations manager's job to oversee general efficiency and effectiveness, potentially saving or earning millions annually. As a result, the job description should be carefully detailed, clearly outlining all responsibilities and expectations. This will ensure you attract the best candidate.

Instructions

1. Outline the basic categories. These include an accurate title, specific operations to manage, primary tasks, employment terms and qualifications.

2. Reflect an accurate job title. "Operations manager" is only accurate if the person will oversee all operations without exception. Usually, however, the company has particular large-scale operations in mind. If so, reflect that in the title. Titles such as "manager of marketing operations" or "manager of assembly line operations" are much more specific and descriptive.

3. Make clear the operations manager's level of authority. This should include the manager's direct supervisor and subordinates. This clarity can help avoid future turf conflict when clearly defined and communicated early.

4. Define primary tasks. Use active verbs, not passive, to give the operations manager's authority more force and function. Instead of the passive, "All advertising activities will be overseen by," say it in active voice, "The operations manager will supervise and direct all advertising activities to increase efficiency and effectiveness advertising efforts and funds." Operations managers typically deal with most day-to-day operations, including manufacturing and production systems, whole plant management, managing equipment maintenance, production and quality control, forming strategic manufacturing policies, analyzing systems, productivity analysis and cost control and resources/materials planning.

5. Derive the qualifications you will list from known tasks. Generally speaking, an operations manager needs strong leadership skills, high levels of natural and intentional organizational capabilities, conflict management experience, budgeting and business training, familiarity with the technical/physical aspects of the company's work and significant experience in the field.

6. Solicit input on the job description from several key organizational leaders. A poorly-written job description for any position, including operations manager, may signal to candidates that the position is less than ideal for them. Moreover, inviting input will guard against future conflict, should the operations manager encroach upon another's turf when performing the job.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact partner organizations with similar positions and ask for a copy of their job description.

• Have the company lawyer also review and provide input, since the description can act as a legal contract.

References

• Reuters: What Are You Looking For? Writing Effective Job Descriptions
• SBA: Writing Effective Job Descriptions