Strategic COO: Operations, Compliance & Growth

Lowell Observatory; Flagstaff (AZ); On-site; USD 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

11 holidays

Sick pay (3 weeks)

Flexible Paid Time Off (PTO)

Retirement plan

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

Long-Term Disability coverage

Retirement match

Job summary

Lowell Observatory seeks a Chief Operations Officer to lead the Operations team and drive cross-functional initiatives across departments, facilities, and programs. The COO collaborates with executive leadership on strategic planning, financial modeling, and new business opportunities while ensuring robust systems and processes.

The role requires executive-level leadership experience, comfort with hands-on work when needed, and a track record of planning through execution.

Qualifications

• Executive leadership experience overseeing cross-functional priorities.
• Ability to lead through managers and senior staff while remaining hands-on when needed.
• Strong quantitative analysis and problem-solving skills.
• Clear written and verbal communication for executive decision-making.
• Experience in risk management and compliance is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and oversight for the Operations team including facilities and venues.
• Design and coordinate effective operations within Public Programs across spaces.
• Support development of new business opportunities with financial modeling and contracts.
• Lead cross-functional initiatives beyond established departments.
• Identify gaps, develop solutions, and own emerging priorities.
• Oversee internal communication functions.
• Plan and support Advisory Board meetings and institutional priorities.
• Represent the organization in community and external relations activities.
• Provide executive oversight for compliance and risk-management (ADA/OSHA).
• Take on evolving responsibilities as needs change.

Skills

Executive leadership

Cross-functional leadership

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Communication

Attention to detail

Strategic thinking

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business/related field

Advanced degree (plus)

Job description

Lowell Observatory seeks a Chief Operations Officer to lead the Operations team and drive cross-functional initiatives across departments, facilities, and programs. The COO collaborates with executive leadership on strategic planning, financial modeling, and new business opportunities while ensuring robust systems and processes.

The role requires executive-level leadership experience, comfort with hands-on work when needed, and a track record of planning through execution.