Maryland Rural Development Corporation (MRDC) is a private, nonprofit Community Action Agency (CAA) dedicated to addressing the needs of low-income individuals, families, and communities throughout rural Maryland. MRDC serves Caroline, Cecil, Harford, and Kent Counties, while also delivering programs and services throughout the Eastern Shore and Western Maryland. Through a wide range of community-based initiatives, MRDC works to empower individuals, strengthen families, and improve the quality of life within the communities it serves.

Position Summary

The Operation Coordinator is a multifaceted leadership position that supports the operational effectiveness of MRDC programs and services. The ideal candidate is a collaborative, mission-driven professional who is committed to community action and understands the critical role Community Action Agencies play in serving vulnerable populations. This individual must be adaptable, solution-oriented, and capable of thriving in a dynamic environment that values innovation, flexibility, and continuous improvement.

The Operation Coordinator is responsible for overseeing key operational functions that support the successful delivery of Head Start and agency-wide services. This position ensures that facilities, technology systems, and transportation operations are maintained safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all applicable regulations and agency standards.

Facilities Management

The Operation Coordinator oversees the day-to-day operations and maintenance of Head Start facilities. This includes ensuring all facilities are safe, secure, well-maintained, and compliant with federal, state, and local health, safety, licensing, and regulatory requirements. The Operation Coordinator collaborates with facilities staff, contractors, vendors, and program leadership to coordinate repairs, preventative maintenance, facility improvements, and capital projects that support a high-quality learning and work environment.

Technology and Operational Systems Management

The Operation Coordinator is responsible for the administration, maintenance, and coordination of MRDC's technology infrastructure and operational systems. This includes oversight of telephones, security systems, and other technology platforms essential to daily operations. The Operation Coordinator serves as the primary point of contact for technology support, equipment management, vendor relationships, system monitoring, and troubleshooting to ensure reliable and efficient agency operations of assigned areas.

Transportation Management

The Operation Coordinator oversees the administration, safety, compliance, and daily operations of the Head Start transportation program. This position supervises transportation staff, including bus drivers and bus monitors, and ensures compliance with all applicable Head Start Performance Standards, Department of Transportation requirements, state and local regulations, and agency policies. The Operation Coordinator is responsible for maintaining safe, reliable, and efficient transportation services for children and families enrolled in the Head Start program while promoting a culture of safety and accountability.

Requirements

Job Responsibilities:

Facilities Management

• Oversee the maintenance, operation, and general condition of Head Start facilities to ensure they meet safety, health, and environmental standards.
• Coordinate with the Facilities Technician and external vendors to ensure timely repairs, preventive maintenance, and improvements.
• Coordinates regular inspections of facilities and systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical) to identify and address issues proactively.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, including fire, safety, and accessibility standards.
• Develop and implement safety protocols and emergency plans for the facility.
• Ensures all safety equipment (e.g., fire extinguishers, alarms) is properly maintained and operational.
• Leads and manages facility improvement projects, including upgrades and renovations, to ensure they are completed on time and within budget.
• Coordinates with contractors, vendors, management and leadership to oversee new construction or renovation projects, ensuring minimal disruption to daily operations.
• Assists with fiscal management, ensuring that expenditures are within allocated limits for replacement or upgrades related to facilities, vehicle maintenance and technology.
• Reviews and approves requests for facility-related purchases.
• Provides training and guidance to staff on facility-related procedures and safety protocols.
• Maintains service agreements and relationships with vendors and contractors, ensuring they adhere to safety standards, timelines, contracts and ensure high-quality of service
• Coordinates and oversees any/all required inspections or certifications with external agencies.
• Develops and maintains emergency preparedness plans for all facilities, ensuring staff and children are properly trained on protocols.
• Responds promptly to facility-related emergencies, coordinating repairs and ensuring staff and children are safe.

Technology Management

• Coordinates the setup, deployment, inventory tracking, and replacement of assigned technology equipment (phones, security system, etc.).
• Serves as the primary point of contact representing MRDC with assigned technology vendors, service providers, and support contractors.
• Administers and supports the organization's telephone and communication systems.
• Monitors and maintains the security alarm system, ensuring proper functionality.

Transportation Management

• Plans, coordinates, and oversee daily transportation services for Head Start children in partnership with Site Supervisors and Family Advocates.

• Develops and maintains bus routes, schedules, and transportation assignments.

• Monitors transportation operations to maximize efficiency and service quality.

• Oversees the operation, maintenance, inspection, and repair of agency buses and transportation vehicles.

• Coordinates preventive maintenance schedules and ensure vehicles meet all safety requirements.

• Monitors vehicle condition and recommend repairs, replacements, or upgrades as needed.

• Maintains records of inspections, maintenance activities, fuel usage, and vehicle inventories.
• Ensures all buses are equipped with required safety equipment and emergency supplies
• Supervises, trains, and evaluates bus drivers and bus monitors.
• Conducts regular staff meetings and safety training sessions.
• Develops work schedules and assign transportation personnel.
• Monitors employee performance and ensure compliance with transportation policies and procedures.

• Assures that files are complete, accurate, and confidentially maintained
• Thinks critically, is team oriented and is a creative solution seeker, who embraces teamwork and collaboration.
• Communicates, is transparent and willing to seek positive outcomes even in times of crisis and under duress with minimal oversight.
• OTHER DUTIES: (Duties listed are not intended to be all inclusive nor limit duties that might reasonably be assigned.) Performs related work as required or assigned.

Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in facilities management, business administration, or a related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• At least 3 years of experience in facilities, people, projects and/or process management, operations, or a related role

Required Skills/Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of building systems, safety regulations, and facility maintenance practices.
• Experience managing budgets, contractors, and vendor relationships.
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects effectively.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Experience working in an educational or child-focused environment, such as a Head Start program preferred
• Familiarity with Head Start regulations and standards preferred
• Certification in facilities management or safety (e.g., OSHA, LEED).
• Project management experience preferred
• Valid driver’s license and ability to drive to various MRDC locations throughout the sate
• Demonstrated success in accomplishing tasks as outlined above
• Must pass criminal background check and fingerprinting
• Must pass all Maryland licensing requirements to include medical evaluation and tuberculosis screening

Physical Demands:

• Ability to perform physical tasks, such as lifting up to 50lbs and moving furniture or equipment.
• Ability to walk, stand, and move around the facility for extended periods.

Compensation:

$57, 000 - $70,000 annually - Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience

Benefits

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Short Term Disability
• Training & Development