Operations Director, Northern Virginia Science Center

Job no:
Work type: Full-Time (Salaried)
Location: Richmond (City), Virginia
Categories: Administrative Services, Educational and Media Services

Title: Operations Director, Northern Virginia Science Center

State Role Title: Gen Admin Manager II

Hiring Range: $130,000 - $155,000

Pay Band: 6

Agency: The Science Museum of Virginia

Location: NOVA Science Center

Agency Website: https://smv.org/

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

Job Description:

The opening of the Northern Virginia Science Center is the largest project in the Science Museum's history. We are seeking a strategic Operations Director with proven museum, cultural institution, hospitality, or theme park/attractions experience who will bring our vision to life through exceptional day-to-day execution and a relentless focus on the guest experience.

As the on-site operational leader, the Operations Director will shape how guests experience the Science Center. This role will build high-performing teams, establish a culture of accountability and collaboration, and ensure that every interaction reflects our commitment to engaging, relevant and inspiring science experiences.

Overseeing the Admissions, Facilities, Grounds, and Exhibits teams, the Operations Director will integrate operational excellence across all areas of the building. In partnership with contracted teams supporting housekeeping and security, this role ensures the Science Center operates seamlessly, safely and at the highest standard.

Working closely with executive leadership, the Operations Director will translate strategy into action, aligning daily operations with agency priorities, continuously improving performance and helping position the Northern Virginia campus as an essential resource for the community. This is a unique opportunity to help launch a major new cultural destination and impact its success from day one.

We are looking for a leader who thrives in complexity and is energized by growth. Someone who brings experience in museums, science centers, theme parks, or similar public-facing institutions and understands how to deliver operational rigor and meaningful guest engagement.

While the position is primarily weekday-based, flexibility is essential. As part of a vibrant, guest-centered institution, this role requires regular availability on evenings, weekends and holidays to support operations and ensure a consistently exceptional experience.

The Science Center is slated for a spring/summer 2027 opening. The position will be based in Northern Virginia, but will participate in robust training in Richmond throughout the summer/fall 2026 until the Science Center is fully constructed.

Interested candidates must apply at https://jobs.virginia.gov/. All applications should include a cover letter and a detailed resume with the names and contact information of three professional references. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled, with priority review beginning August 5, 2026. The selected candidate will begin on or after August 25, 2026.

Benefits

The position offers a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, FSA, HRA, HSA, life insurance, 457 and pension plan, short and long-term disability and employee assistance program. The Science Museum has a generous paid time off policy, including vacation leave, four days family & personal leave, eight sick days per year and 12 paid holidays.

The salary range for this position is $130,000 - $155,000. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as the candidate's experience and market considerations at the time of offer.

Minimum Qualifications

The ideal candidate has a strong background in leadership, guest services, and operations, including experience with facilities, exhibits, and technology. They should have excellent management, organizational, and analytical skills, along with experience in budget oversight, process improvement, and strategic planning. Strong communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills are essential, as well as the ability to work effectively with clients, vendors, staff, and stakeholders at all levels.

The candidate should have proven experience managing people, processes, and projects both independently and as part of a team. Attention to detail and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment are critical. This role also requires someone who can provide strategic oversight, inspire and motivate staff and volunteers, and help create a creative and dynamic work environment.

Additional Considerations

A background or interest in education, history, museum studies, significant experience in museum, business or hospitality management, bilingual Spanish proficiency, and strong public relations and customer service skills are a plus.

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to "Your Application" in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

The Science Museum of Virginia will accept ONLY online applications for all Science Museum employment opportunities. To be considered for this position, you must submit a Commonwealth of Virginia application or resume through the on-line "Virginia Jobs" (RMS) employment site no later than 11:55 p.m. on the closing date listed. If the position is an open until filled recruitment; the position will remain open for a minimum of 5 workdays or until the position is filled. Each application is reviewed for documentation that shows the applicant meets the minimum and additional qualifications stated in the job announcement. The decision to interview an applicant is based on the information provided on the application; therefore, it is essential to provide detailed information. Submitting an application lacking in detail, may impact your interview eligibility. The RMS website will provide a confirmation of receipt when the application is submitted for consideration. Please refer to your RMS account for the status of your application and this position. Multiple positions may be filled from this recruitment within 90 days of the closing date. Computers are available for applying for jobs in public libraries and the Virginia Employment Commission offices.

Advertised: 23 Jul 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:

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