Operations & Facilities Manager

Status: Full-time | Exempt

Location: 929 E. Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202

Our Mission:

Inspire all children to wonder and explore their world through play and innovative, hands-on learning experiences.

Become a valued member of the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum’s (BBCM) team!
We are looking for enthusiastic, positive, and driven, team players with a passion for early childhood education to help us reach our goal of providing ALL children with high-quality, hands-on, playful learning experiences. We believe teamwork stems from supportive and collaborative discussions. We invest in our team member’s professional growth and celebrate curious minds.   

At the Museum, we are committed to equal employment opportunities for all employees and job applicants, and it prohibits any form of discrimination or harassment based on factors such as race, color, religion, age, gender, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete a job application or a job interview or to otherwise participate in the hiring process, please contact Libby Cable Director of People and Culture [email protected]. 

Position Summary: 

The Office and Facilities Manager is a key leadership position responsible for ensuring the seamless day-to-day operations of the children’s museum. This role oversees facilities management, building maintenance, safety protocols, and operational efficiency, ensuring that all guests, staff, and stakeholders experience a safe, welcoming, and well-functioning environment. The ideal candidate will be proactive, detail-oriented, and have a strong commitment to supporting the museum's mission of inspiring children and families through play and learning.

This position requires an individual with strong administrative skills, the ability to work independently, and a detail-oriented approach to problem-solving. The Office and Facilities Manager will provide support to a diverse staff and program initiatives while upholding the museum's values, culture, and professional standards.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational & Administrative: 

• Oversee office operations, ensuring efficient management of supplies, equipment, and vendor relationships.
• Manage procurement, inventory, and distribution of supplies and equipment.
• Oversee office technology, including computers and software, and provide basic IT troubleshooting while coordinating with external support providers.
• Track and manage facility-related budgets, monitor expenditures, identify cost-saving opportunities, and prepare financial reports.
• Coordinate and track facility, office, and staff-related projects, ensuring timely completion.
• Oversee the sales and logistics of the Museum’s traveling exhibits.
• Proactively handle administrative requests and inquiries.
• Assist with special projects and initiatives to support the museum’s mission and operational goals.

Facility Management:

• Ensure that museum spaces, including exhibits, offices, and public areas, are clean, safe, and well-maintained.
• Develop and oversee maintenance schedules, repairs, and facility upgrades in collaboration with vendors and contractors.
• Implement and monitor safety and security protocols in compliance with local regulations and museum policies.
• Manage relationships with external vendors, contractors, and service providers to ensure high-quality maintenance and operations.
• Develop and execute emergency preparedness plans, conduct safety audits, and oversee staff training sessions.
• Ensure compliance with building codes, safety regulations, and ADA accessibility standards.
• Oversee and lead the custodial team, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Oversee inventory management and purchasing of cleaning supplies, tools, café essentials, and equipment.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for facility-related emergencies, ensuring prompt response and resolution.
• Perform additional administrative and facility-related tasks as needed to ensure smooth museum operations.
• Perform additional facility-related tasks as needed to ensure smooth museum operations.

Skills and Abilities

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Facilities Management, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 3+ years of experience in office administration, and facility management, preferably in a museum, nonprofit, or similar public-facing setting.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Familiarity with building maintenance, safety regulations, and vendor management.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize workload to meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced and dynamic work environment.
• Strong knowledge of building systems, maintenance, and safety regulations.
• Proven ability to manage budgets, contracts, and vendor relationships.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead a team and collaborate across departments.
• Must be comfortable maintaining a high standard and holding a team accountable
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical tasks related to building maintenance.
• Must be available to work occasional evenings and weekends to accommodate museum events or emergencies. 
• The position operates in both office and active museum settings, which may include exposure to noise, crowds, and children’s play areas.

Benefits & Salary: 

Starting salary is $60,000.
BBCM offers a generous benefits package, including but not limited to the following:

• Medical Insurance (BBCM pays 80% of cost)
• Dental Insurance (BBCM pays 80% of cost)
• Vision, Critical Illness, Accidental Insurance, Supplementary Life, and Accidental Death  Dismemberment eligibility
• HSA with employer contributions
• HRA employer-paid plan
• Employer-paid plans for Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance &
• Long-Term Disability
• 401k with the Museum contributing 5% at year-end (not matching every pay period)
• 18 days PTO
• Dedicated Sick Time 
• Nine Paid Holidays