The posted salary range reflects the first quartile through the midpoint of the position's salary range. Compensation will be determined based on skills, relevant work experience, and education. In addition to base salary, this position qualifies for a 14% tax-sheltered annuity (TSA). Des Moines Public Schools provides single and family health benefits valued at approximately $35,000 annually at no cost to employees. Relocation assistance of up to $6,000 is also available. Title: Chief Operations Officer
Classification: Non-Licensed Administrator
HIRING SPECIFICATIONS:Minimum Qualifications: Education: - Advanced degree in operations management, education, business administration or related field or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience
Work Experience: - Five years previous supervisory
- Five years experience in implementing multiple functions within large organizations
Licensure or Certification: One of the following certifications, preferred:
- Project Management Professional (PMP)
- Other aligned license or certification in one of the supervisory areas
Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities: - Knowledge of federal and state laws related to areas of supervision.
- Ability to analyze facts and make sound decisions based on applicable laws, emerging trends, and the strategic plan.
- Effective written and oral communication and presentation techniques.
- Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Strong supervisory and leadership skills.
- Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to quality and accuracy.
- Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
- Maintain confidentiality.
- Attend work on a prompt and regular basis.
- Maintain satisfactory and harmonious working relationships with the public, students, and other employees.
Job Summary: The Chief Operations Officer (COO) supervises the functions of the Operations department to ensure leadership, vision, and a commitment to advancing education through the operational effectiveness of the organization. As a key member of the Superintendent's Cabinet, the COO provides strategic leadership, fosters collaboration, and ensures the effective utilization of operational resources. The essential functions as shown below represent only the key areas of responsibility; specific position requirements will vary depending on the needs of the district.
Essential Functions: - Provide leadership and oversight to key operational departments including custodial, facilities, preventative maintenance, transportation, food & nutrition, district & school security, and warehouse services.
- Direct the coordination and supervision of the District's long-range capital investment program and construction projects, including planning, prioritization, budgeting, scheduling, contractor oversight, and compliance, to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with the District's facilities and strategic plans.
- Lead cross-functional teams to implement forward-thinking initiatives that enhance operational efficiency and support student outcomes. Streamline processes, enhance productivity, and optimize resource allocation through operational solutions.
- Analyze operational performance metrics and results, comparing them to established objectives/goals. Identify and implement corrective actions to address areas for continuous improvement.
- Evaluate existing systems to identify areas of growth and improvement to ensure the highest quality of efficiency. Leverage the effectiveness of resources, programs, and services throughout the district.
- Oversee annual planning and ongoing monitoring to ensure optimal level of resources (financial, technical, human) to deliver required services that align with budget, strategic plan objectives, and best practices.
- Effectively communicate operational objectives, initiatives, and results to internal and external stakeholders.
- Actively support the efforts of the Board, Superintendent, and colleagues to achieve district goals and objectives.
- Prepare reports and coordinate record keeping in accordance with the requirements of the district, state, and federal programs.
- Attend all Board meetings, serving as a resource person for the Superintendent and Board.
- Maintain professional learning and growth through professional organizations, seminars, course work, and collaboration.
- Other duties, as assigned.
Department: Operations
Reports To: Superintendent
Highest Level Supervised: Director
Bargaining Group: N/A
FLSA Status: Exempt
Calendar: 12 Month / 8.0 Hour Day
Physical Requirements: PHYSICAL DEMAND: FREQUENCY: Standing Frequent 33% - 66%
Walking Frequent 33% - 66%
Sitting Frequent 33% - 66%
Bending/Stooping Occasional 1% - 32%
Reaching/Pushing/Pulling Occasional 1%- 32%
Climbing/Stairs Occasional 1% - 32%
Driving Occasional 1% - 32%
Lifting (10 lbs.) Occasional 1% - 32%
Carrying (25 feet) Occasional 1% - 32%
Manual Dexterity TasksTelephone Frequent 33% - 66%
Computer Frequent 33% - 66%
Other Never 0%
Working ConditionsInside Constant 67%+
Outside Occasional 1% - 32%
Extremes of Temperature/Humidity Occasional 1% - 32%
Approved By: Matthew Smith
Date: 11/05/2026
