Job Description

South Coast Botanic Garden's mission is to connect ALL to the wonders of nature and create experiences that inspire stewardship and sustainability. The 87-acre destination is an oasis of formal gardens and natural walking trails founded atop the most unlikely of beginnings - a sanitary landfill. Today, South Coast Botanic Garden (SCBG) stands as a testament to the regenerative power of nature and the possibilities for land reclamation. The stunning Dorothy and John Bohannon Rose Garden is a signature experience, along with the show-stopping Living Wall, a long-term exhibit of eight remarkable large-scale works of fine art sculpture, and seasonal butterfly pavilion. Programs invite guests to interact with nature through music, craft, science and wellness activities. There is even more excitement to come, with the creation of a 3.5-acre Marilyn and John Long Children and Family Garden scheduled for completion in the coming years. There has never been a better time to join this dynamic team!


SCBG fosters an environment where strategic focus and cultural health work hand-in-hand, ensuring alignment and resilience. The ideal candidate displays a grateful and positive outlook, wholeheartedly supports SCBG's mission to connect ALL to the wonders of nature and has the grit necessary to grow SCBG. Candidates should be excited to embrace this framework to guide their work and actively collaborate on cross-functional projects that further the organization's strategic goals.

POSITION TITLE:

Director, Operations

REPORTING RELATIONSHIP:

Reports to Chief Operating Officer

JOB SUMMARY:

The Director, Operations is a key operational leader responsible for ensuring the smooth, efficient and safe daily function of SCBG's 87-acre site. This position oversees the Operations, Rangers and Volunteer teams while developing sustainable systems that strengthen communication, accountability and operational excellence across the organization.


Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, the Director will manage daily operations while building processes that streamline efficiency, strengthen infrastructure and elevate guest experience standards. This includes overseeing site readiness and operational logistics for public programs, venue rentals and special events hosted across SCBG's indoor and outdoor spaces. This role will also collaborate closely with partners from the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) to advocate for infrastructure improvements, communicate needs and coordinate projects that advance the long-term vision of SCBG.


As a hands-on leader and collaborative strategist, the Director, Operations ensures that SCBG runs efficiently today while building the systems and partnerships that sustain its success tomorrow.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Operational Leadership and Infrastructure Management

Oversee daily operations of the 87-acre Garden, ensuring facilities, maintenance, custodial and guest-facing areas operate efficiently, safely and sustainably Serve as a liaison with Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation, advocating for infrastructure needs, coordinating maintenance and improvement projects and fostering a cooperative working relationship Monitor construction projects on the ground (directly or through assigned staff), ensuring coordination among County partners, contractors and SCBG departments Develop and implement systems that enhance communication, streamline workflows and align daily operations with organizational goals Manage SCBG's growing asset portfolio, including inventory, maintenance and lifecycle planning; ensuring resources are tracked and strategically deployed Develop procedures for event load-in/out, traffic and crowd flow and emergency response during large gatherings Ensure that operational systems support both daytime visitation and evening venue activations

Leadership and Staff Development

Supervise the Operations Manager, Ranger Manager and Volunteer Manager, providing direction, coaching and support As a visible organizational leader, facilitate trainings, lead all-staff operational updates and represent Operations in meetings and public forums Create a culture rooted in SCBG's values: Grit, Positive and Grateful, and Heart for the Why Set clear expectations, give regular feedback and empower teams to take ownership of outcomes Ensure alignment across all departments through transparent communication and shared accountability Lead regular team and cross-departmental meetings that promote organizational communication, collaboration and accountability

Cross-Departmental Collaboration

Work closely with the Directors of Horticulture, Learning and Engagement, and Marketing and Communications to ensure operational readiness for exhibits, programs and events Partner with the Development team to support donor-funded and capital projects, providing accurate operational input and follow-through Collaborate with third-party producers, vendors and event partners to support safe and efficient use of SCBG as a venue Ensure site readiness, vendor coordination and operational support for public events, private rentals and programs Serve as a member of the Leadership Team, contributing to organization-wide planning meetings and communications that align guest experience, operations and mission delivery

Exhibit Installation Oversight

Oversee the logistics, installation and removal of all exhibits, including traveling, seasonal installations like the Tropical Butterfly Pavilion and Astra Lumina, and permanent installations Coordinate across departments to ensure exhibits meet safety, operational and guest experience standards Partner with the Learning and Engagement and Marketing teams to ensure timely preparation, operational readiness and quality control for every exhibit experience Maintain documentation, schedules and evaluation tools for continuous improvement of exhibit operations

Safety & Security Oversight

Oversee the Ranger team to ensure consistent safety, hospitality and operational standards Develop and maintain emergency preparedness, safety protocol and risk management systems Foster a culture of proactive safety awareness and guest care across all teams Partner with public safety agencies as needed to ensure the well-being of guests and staff

Volunteer Program Strategy and Quality

Provide leadership and strategic oversight of the Volunteer Program to ensure alignment with organizational needs and mission goals Oversee the Volunteer Manager to evaluate structure, training and engagement Support a culture of gratitude, recognition and consistent service quality

REQUIREMENTS:

Experience overseeing public venues, event spaces or visitor attractions, with a focus on managing staff, coordinating vendors and implementing safety protocols to deliver an exceptional guest experience Demonstrated success in leading teams and cross-functional groups, and in collaborating effectively with external stakeholders, including contractors, government agencies and community partners Skilled in building collaborative workflows, facilitating effective meetings and promoting clear communication across departments Strategic and analytical mindset with a history of identifying opportunities for operational improvements and driving process efficiencies Excellent organizational and communication abilities, with proven capacity to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment Demonstrated skills in public speaking, facilitating team and staff meetings, and providing training to diverse internal audiences Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace and project management tools Willingness and flexibility to work evenings, weekends and holidays as required to meet operational needs Physical ability to walk or stand for extended periods and safely lift up to 30 pounds

QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor's degree preferred in Operations Management, Facility Management, Business Administration or a related field. Equivalent combinations of education, training and relevant professional experience will be considered in place of a degree. Five or more years of progressively responsible experience in operations, facilities or project management, ideally within a cultural attraction, public garden, museum, campus, park, venue or nonprofit environment Experience overseeing public-facing facilities, exhibits or construction projects in partnership with external contractors or government agencies Valid driver's license and reliable transportation for work-related tasks

Position is full-time, exempt. Must be available weekends, some evenings and some holidays. The salary range for this position begins at $75,000 annually and will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. Please submit your cover letter, resume and complete application to apply. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Early submission is encouraged for priority consideration.


South Coast Botanic Garden Foundation offers a competitive benefits package including health insurance, paid time off and retirement plan participation.


South Coast Botanic Garden Foundation is dedicated to a practice of diversity, inclusion, access and equity for all employees and visitors.