Operations Manager

Operations Manager

Location: Orange County, California

Employment Type: Full-Time

About Us

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the protection and preservation of elephants and wildlife in Kenya. Through wildlife rescue and rehabilitation, anti-poaching initiatives, habitat protection, community engagement, and conservation programs, we work to safeguard wildlife and wild spaces for future generations.

Our U.S. office supports fundraising, donor engagement, grantmaking, and operational initiatives that help advance the organization’s mission in the United States. We are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to join our team and help ensure the organization continues to operate efficiently and effectively while supporting our ongoing growth and impact.

Position Summary

Reporting directly to the Executive Director, the Operations Manager serves as an important member of the team, ensuring the smooth and efficient operations of the organization. This individual will oversee office administration, compliance, database management, vendor relationships, grant management, and operational processes while providing support to the Executive Director and staff.

The successful candidate will be proactive, solutions-oriented, detail-focused, and comfortable working independently while collaborating across departments.

Key Responsibilities

Operations & Office Management

• Support and manage the daily office operations and administrative functions.
• Manage office supplies, vendor relationships, kitchen and breakroom inventory, water service, marketing materials, and archived records.
• Coordinate incoming mail processing and office logistics.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for internal technology and IT support issues.
• Provide operational oversight when the Executive Director is unavailable.

Grant & Program Administration

• Support grant administration, including tracking, filing, reporting, and documentation management.
• Prepare grant agreements, consent resolutions, and related administrative materials.
• Maintain organized electronic grant records and reporting systems.

Database & Reporting Management

• Oversee Salesforce database administration and data integrity.
• Generate reports and dashboards for the Executive Director.
• Collaborate with the Executive Director and staff to maximize database utilization and reporting capabilities.

Compliance & Governance

• Help ensure the organization remains current with required registrations, filings, policies, and operational procedures.
• Coordinate and manage deadlines for state charitable registrations with third-party providers.
• Monitor and maintain organizational profiles with Charity Navigator, GuideStar, and other external platforms.
• Assist in the development, maintenance, and implementation of organizational policies, procedures, and standard operating procedures.
• Ensure compliance with internal policies and applicable regulatory requirements.

Financial & Administrative Support

• Assist with accounting-related administrative functions, including transaction review and donor support issues.
• Support the annual audit and IRS Form 990 preparation alongside external accounting partners.
• Coordinate bank deposits and manage post office box operations.
• Serve as the initial point of contact for estate and planned giving inquiries.

Relationship & Vendor Management

• Coordinate relationships with service providers, consultants, and business partners.
• Support and monitor corporate partnerships and 3rd party fundraising relationships for compliance.

Event & Organizational Support

• Provide logistical and administrative support for organizational events as needed.
• Assist with merchandise operations and seasonal support activities.
• Provide backup support for donor services, phone coverage, and donation processing during peak periods.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Executive Director to support organizational goals.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum three years of operations, office management, nonprofit administration, or organizational leadership experience.
• Strong organizational, project management, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities with exceptional attention to detail.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and cloud-based business applications.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and exercise sound judgment.
• Maintain a friendly and approachable disposition, with a “can do attitude.”

Preferred

• Experience working in a nonprofit environment.
• Experience with Salesforce CRM.
• Experience leading projects, coordinating teams, or supervising staff.
• Familiarity with nonprofit compliance, audits, charitable registrations, and grant administration.
• Knowledge of donor databases and fundraising operations.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience (range of $35-$45/hr) exempt role
• Performance-based bonus opportunities
• Health insurance benefits
• Retirement plan benefits
• Flexible and collaborative work environment
• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact through mission-driven work

To Apply

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience and interest in the position directly on this posting site. Absolutely no phone calls will be accepted.

health care, retirement and benefit contributions.

English required.