Operations Manager Career Guide

What Does an Operations Manager Do?

Administrative services and operations managers plan, direct, and coordinate activities that help an organization run efficiently. They supervise staff, set goals and deadlines, recommend policy changes to improve operations, and ensure facilities meet safety and regulatory standards. Operations managers may specialize in areas such as recordkeeping, mail distribution, facilities management, or general office support services.

Education & Requirements

• Typical Education: Bachelor's degree (often in business or related field), though some enter with a high school diploma
• Certifications: Optional professional certifications in facility management or administrative services (not required but beneficial)
• Key Skills: Analytical skills, communication, detail orientation, leadership, project management
• Experience: Less than 5 years of related work experience demonstrating managerial and leadership abilities

Salary Information

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024 data):

• Median Annual Salary: $108,390 (administrative services managers), $104,690 (facilities managers)
• Entry-Level (10th percentile): $64,740 (administrative), $62,550 (facilities)
• Experienced (90th percentile): $200,010 (administrative), $173,080 (facilities)
• Top-Paying Industries: Finance and insurance ($128,470), Professional/scientific/technical services ($124,430)
• Median Hourly Wage: $51.39 per hour

Job Outlook & Growth

Employment of administrative services and operations managers is projected to grow 4 percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 36,400 openings are projected each year. Demand will be driven by continued focus on environmental impact and energy efficiency of buildings, requiring facilities managers to oversee improvements. Administrative services managers, especially those in records and information management, will be needed as cloud computing expands and organizations develop new data management practices and maintain data security.

How to Break Into This Field

1. Education: Earn a bachelor's degree in business administration, management, or related field. Some positions accept high school diploma with relevant experience.
2. Entry-Level Roles: Start as administrative assistant, office coordinator, project coordinator, or facilities technician to gain experience.
3. Build Skills: Develop proficiency in project management software, budgeting, vendor management, and facilities operations. Gain experience in scheduling, recordkeeping, and staff supervision.
4. Network: Join professional associations like International Facility Management Association (IFMA) or Association of Records Managers and Administrators (ARMA).
5. Apply Strategically: Target healthcare, education, finance, and government sectors which employ the most administrative services managers. Use job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, and industry-specific sites.

Career Path & Advancement

Operations managers typically start by managing specific departments or facilities before advancing to oversee larger operations or multiple locations. With experience, they may become director of operations, chief operating officer (COO), or senior facility manager. Specializations include records and information management, facilities management, or general business operations. Advancement often requires demonstrating cost savings, efficiency improvements, and strong leadership abilities.

Pros & Cons

Related Careers

If you're interested in Operations Manager, you might also consider:

• Human Resources Manager (median $140,030)
• Management Analyst (median $101,190)
• Property, Real Estate, and Community Association Manager (median $66,700)
• Compensation and Benefits Manager (median $140,360)