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Associate Director Of Operations Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Director of Operations (2497)

Nevada, IA Β· On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

The Director of Operations will be responsible for driving operational efficiency, strategy execution, and the overall performance of our transportation network. This role demands strong leadership ...

The Director of Operations Strategy leads operational strategy and execution across PMO, integration, capacity planning, and business continuity to drive business priorities and scalable growth. It ...

The Director of Operations Strategy leads operational strategy and execution across PMO, integration, capacity planning, and business continuity to drive business priorities and scalable growth. It ...

Showing results 21-40

Associate Director Of Operations information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$24

$50

How much do associate director of operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate director of operations in Iowa is $24.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $28.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate director of operations?

Associate Directors of Operations are mid-to-senior level professionals responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a company or organization. They help develop and implement operational strategies, manage teams, optimize workflows, and ensure that business objectives are met efficiently. Typically, they work closely with other department heads and report to the Director of Operations or higher-level executives. Their role is crucial in improving productivity, maintaining quality standards, and supporting organizational growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate director of operations?

To thrive as an Associate Director of Operations, you need strong leadership, project management, and analytical skills, often backed by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in business or a related field. Proficiency with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, data analytics tools, and process improvement methodologies such as Six Sigma is highly valued. Outstanding communication, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability help you excel in cross-functional team environments and drive operational excellence. These skills are crucial for optimizing processes, managing teams effectively, and achieving organizational goals.

What are some common challenges faced by an associate director of operations, and how can they be addressed?

Associate Directors of Operations often encounter challenges such as balancing strategic planning with day-to-day operational demands, managing cross-departmental communication, and optimizing workflows to increase efficiency. Successfully addressing these challenges involves strong organizational skills, proactive stakeholder engagement, and the ability to adapt quickly to shifting priorities. Building effective teams, leveraging data for decision-making, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement are also crucial for overcoming obstacles and driving operational excellence.

What is the difference between Associate Director Of Operations vs Operations Manager?

AspectAssociate Director Of OperationsOperations Manager
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, often advanced degrees or certifications in management or businessBachelor's degree, relevant experience in operations management
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, overseeing multiple departments, higher-level decision makingDay-to-day operations, team supervision, process implementation
Employer & Industry UsageCorporate, manufacturing, healthcare, logisticsRetail, manufacturing, service industries, corporate settings
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding leadership roles, career progression, responsibilitiesOperational tasks, team management, process improvement

The Associate Director Of Operations typically holds a higher strategic role with broader responsibilities and often requires advanced education or certifications. Operations Managers focus more on daily operational tasks and team supervision. Both roles are vital in organizational success but differ mainly in scope and level of strategic involvement.

How much is an associate director of operations paid?

The average salary for an Associate Director of Operations typically ranges from $80,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on industry, location, and experience. Compensation may also include bonuses, benefits, and opportunities for advancement.

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Associate Director Of Operations jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Associate Director Of Operations job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Director Of Operations job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,273 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Director of Operations

West Des Moines, IA β€’ On-site

Yellow Brick Road Early Childhood Development Center
Education Programs AdministrationΒ β€’Β 201 - 500 employees

$40K - $50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Description

At Yellow Brick Road, we're on a mission to put good humans into the world and leave it better than we found it. Our team creates warm, inclusive, and joyful environments where children, families, and staff can thrive. If you're energized by purpose, connection, and meaningful work, you'll love being part of a community that invests in your growth and celebrates what makes you exceptional.


The Director of Operations will play a crucial role in ensuring the school's operations run smoothly by adhering to all company and regulatory requirements. You will provide an enriching experience by making our school's the most fun, nurturing, and positive environments for our students, staff and families through collaboration, communication, and innovation! The Director will play a pivotal role in not only maintaining the school's high standards but also in driving its growth and expanding its reach within the community, ensuring that even more children benefit from the company's exceptional care and educational programs.


What You'll Do:

Team Leadership

  • Provide hands-on leadership to the center's staff, setting clear expectations and fostering a culture of professionalism that promotes the company's mission and core values.
  • Conduct regular staff meetings, training sessions, and performance reviews to ensure team members are well-equipped and motivated.
  • Address any staffing issues, concerns, or conflicts promptly and professionally to maintain a positive working environment.
  • Hold themselves and their team accountable?
  • Develop, train, and continually coach staff members on your team in accordance with compliance and program expectations.
  • Collaborate with other company departments including but not limited to marketing, enrollment, career coordinators, and the financial team to maintain communication in accordance with company policy and procedure.

Program Development and Quality Assurance

  • Ensure the center meets and exceeds the company's quality standards, as well as state and local licensing requirements.
  • Ratio and Classroom Distribution is always met in accordance with state laws.
  • Implement regular classroom observations, assessments, evaluations, and audits of curriculum and program philosophy, facilities, and staff performance to maintain high-quality care using instructional coaching techniques, providing appropriate documentation for each.?
  • Maintain and update [as given by the company] policies, procedures, and guidelines to address evolving needs and best practices.

Parent and Community Engagement

  • Build and cultivate strong relationships with current and prospective parents, guardians, and families through open communication, regular updates, and involvement opportunities.
  • Regular oversight of teacher communication to parents via parent communication app.
  • Organize and facilitate parent intake meetings, family events, and community outreach programs to enhance engagement and support.
  • Collaborate with local schools, organizations, and agencies to provide resources, referrals, and seamless transitions for children and families.

Financial Management

  • Oversee and manage the center's budgets, ensuring optimal allocation of labor cost-effectiveness, and financial sustainability.
  • Regularly examine expenses, and financial trends to make informed decisions, adjustments, and projections to all budgetary expectations.
  • Monitor and maintain company given enrollment goals and quotas to meet growth objectives while upholding quality standards.
  • Partner with Finance Team to address any irregularities and proactively solve issues.?

Organizational Health

  • Work with peers and other leadership within the company to align with company values, mission and goals.?
  • Meet and maintain enrollment quotas and goals by frequently evaluating marking efforts, prospective parent communication and follow up, and initiating quality school tours.?

What You'll Need:

  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in childcare management, early childhood education, or a similar leadership role.
  • Demonstrated leadership abilities with a track record of team building, staff development, and operational excellence.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite; CRM Experience and experience with parent communication apps a plus.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of childcare regulations, licensing standards, and industry best practices.
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills.
  • Strong analytical, strategic planning, and financial management capabilities.
  • Flexibility to adapt to changing goal and quota needs, schedules, and priorities within the childcare center environment.

Other Requirements:

  • Must be able to make the commute to the assigned school.
  • Must possess a valid CPR/First Aid certification, or willing to obtain within 30 days of employment.
  • Must be able and willing to perform physically demanding work, such as (but not limited to) lifting, carrying, kneeling, crouching, etc. and up to 65lbs.
  • Must have initiative and a "can do!" attitude.
  • Maintain a flexible and open-minded mindset.
  • Must be able to regularly use technology such as Microsoft Office, online lesson planning, daily reporting
  • Act as a classroom Teacher and Mentor Teacher as needed
  • Other duties as assigned.

What We Offer:

  • Ongoing Professional Development & Growth Opportunities
  • 401(k) Plan
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays
  • Employee Childcare Discount

The starting pay range for this position is $40,000 to $50,000 annually and is applicable for candidates who will be working in the following location[s] Iowa. This range is subject to adjustment for other geographic work locations. In addition to geographic location, Yellow Brick Road considers education, experience, internal equity, market demands, and other qualifying criteria to determine starting salaries.


In addition to compensation benefits, Yellow Brick Road offers a variety of health and welfare benefits, based on eligibility, including medical and dental insurance, life insurance, and career development.