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Entry Level Operations Specialist Jobs in Virginia

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Reston, VA · On-site

$40K - $50K/yr

BACK TO CAREERS Security Operations Specialist Carahsoft seeks an entry level Security Operations Specialist to join our IT team in Reston, VA. This position will play a critical role in identifying ...

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Entry Level Operations Specialist information

See Virginia salary details

$30.2K

$67.8K

$110K

How much do entry level operations specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level operations specialist in Virginia is $67,840.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,600.00 and $80,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level operations specialist do?

An Entry Level Operations Specialist supports the daily functions of a company's operations department. Their responsibilities often include data entry, process monitoring, assisting with workflow optimization, and collaborating with various teams to ensure efficient business operations. They may also help troubleshoot issues, maintain documentation, and provide administrative support. This role is typically a starting point for those looking to build a career in operations management.

What are some typical challenges an entry level operations specialist might face during their first few months on the job?

As an Entry Level Operations Specialist, you may initially encounter challenges such as adapting to fast-paced workflows and learning to manage multiple priorities simultaneously. Understanding company-specific processes, technology platforms, and compliance requirements can also take time. Collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams and quickly responding to operational issues are essential skills you’ll develop. Seeking feedback, asking questions, and taking advantage of training resources can help you overcome these challenges and grow in the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level operations specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Operations Specialist, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of business operations, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field. Familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, spreadsheets, and workflow management tools is often required. Effective communication, problem-solving, and a proactive attitude help you stand out in this role. These skills ensure efficient daily operations, smooth coordination between departments, and the ability to quickly resolve issues in a dynamic environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level Operations Specialist vs Customer Service Representative?

AspectEntry Level Operations SpecialistCustomer Service Representative
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer associate degreeHigh school diploma or equivalent
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, often in logistics, supply chain, or operations departmentsCall centers, retail, or office environments
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in logistics, manufacturing, and corporate operationsRetail, telecommunications, and service industries
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles in operations and logisticsCompared for customer interaction and support roles

The Entry Level Operations Specialist typically focuses on supporting operational processes, logistics, and supply chain tasks within an organization, often requiring some technical knowledge. In contrast, a Customer Service Representative primarily handles customer inquiries, complaints, and support. While both roles are entry-level and may require similar educational backgrounds, their work environments and core responsibilities differ significantly.

Is an entry level operations specialist a good entry-level job?

An entry level operations specialist role is generally considered a good entry-level job as it provides foundational experience in process management, logistics, and coordination. It often requires basic skills in data analysis, communication, and familiarity with tools like Excel or ERP systems, making it suitable for those starting their careers in operations or supply chain fields.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operations Specialist jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Operations Specialist jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Operations Specialist jobs in Virginia?

For Entry Level Operations Specialist jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Operations Specialist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,840 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Entry Level Payroll Operations Specialist

VCCS-Shared Services Center

Richmond, VA • On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Posting Details
Posting Summary
Working Title
Entry Level Payroll Operations Specialist
Role Title
Finan Svcs Spec I
Role Code
19031-SW
FLSA
Nonexempt
Pay Band
04
Position Number
27000395
Agency
VCCS-Shared Services Center
Division
Shared Services Center (Div)
Work Location
Botetourt - 023
Hiring Range
$50,000-$55,000
Emergency/Essential Personnel
No
EEO Category
2-Professionals
Full Time or Part Time
Full Time
Does this position have telework options? -Telework options are subject to change based on business needs-
Yes
Does this position have a bilingual or multilingual skill requirement or preference?
No
Work Schedule
Monday - Friday
8am - 5pm
Sensitive Position
No
Job Description
Innovation allows an organization to make the most of every dollar spent. At Virginia's Community Colleges System (VCCS), our compelling mission, our ambitious strategic plan and our fiscal realities challenge us to ensure that community college resources are maximized for the priority of student success and credential completion.
Nestled between the Blue Ridge and Appalachian Mountains, the VCCS Shared Services Center is centrally located to all 23 colleges in the VCCS, 43 miles from Blacksburg, VA, and a four-hour drive from Washington, D.C. A vital part of the ever-growing Roanoke Valley, Daleville is a haven for tourists and residents alike. Within an hour's drive are the breathtaking Smith Mountain Lake, world-famous Appalachian Trail, and many other outdoor activities, including golfing, biking, and hiking. The thriving Historic City Market in downtown Roanoke and the Daleville Town Center and Performance Pavilion also host farmers markets, community and cultural events, and festivals throughout the year.
The VCCS Shared Services Center is an innovation strategy to advance the priority of student success, reduce the administrative burden on individual colleges, consolidate transaction-based functions, create economies of scale, and improve backroom process efficiency. This work allows the VCCS to better focus resources on the students - helping them start their educational journeys, persist, and succeed.
Process payroll through identified policies and procedures for the Shared Services Center customers, ensuring timely and accurate payment and required withholding is made. The entry level payroll operations specialist must be able to work independently as well as in a team environment to help identify process improvements and efficiencies in Payroll Operations. This includes contributing, planning, organizing, and processing to ensure all payroll support functions are administered timely and accurately while all audit requirements are met. Ability to work cross-functionally within the department. Remain informed on all payroll projects, Payroll Service Level Agreement, and updates as directed by the Payroll Manager, Payroll Supervisor, IRS, and Department of Accounts Payroll Bulletins.
Special Assignments
May be required to perform other duties as assigned. May be required to assist the agency or state government generally in the event of an emergency declaration by the Governor.
KSA's/Required Qualifications
Knowledge:
  • Knowledge of Internal Revenue Code, Regulations, and Rulings regarding income subject to inclusion in gross income, withholding, tax deposit and payment, and wage and tax reporting requirements.
  • Knowledge of fiscal operations management and accounting.
  • Knowledge of payroll best practices including compliance, federal, and state regulations.

Skills:
  • Retrieving and manipulating data via online access in database files through various software applications.
  • Excellent analytical skills.
  • Excellent communication skills, verbal and written.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills for building relationships with our customers.
  • Intermediate skills in using personal computer applications and Microsoft Office products, including proficiency in Excel.
  • Excellent attention to detail.
  • Excellent mathematical aptitude and numerical skills.

Abilities:
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision and be independently accountable for meeting deadlines timely and accurately.
  • Ability to organize and manage workflow to ensure payroll tasks are processed accurately and timely.
  • Ability to deal sensitively with confidential information.
  • Ability to work independently as well as a team member.
  • Ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies.

Attributes:
  • Willingness and ability to be flexible and to grow professionally as the position changes.
  • Practices ethical behavior and demonstrates and supports the SSC values and mission.
  • Remains optimistic and supportive of established procedures while looking for process improvements and efficiencies.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Experience in one or more of the following fields: Payroll, Human Resources, Finance, or Accounting.
  • Intermediate level experience with Microsoft Office, specifically with Excel.

Additional Considerations
Additional Considerations:
  • Fundamental experience with Internal Revenue Code, Regulations, and Rulings regarding income subject to inclusion in gross income, withholding, tax deposit and payment, and wage and tax reporting requirements.
  • Experience or knowledge of multi-state taxation.
  • Experience in state government or higher education.
  • Experience with healthcare, retirement, or other benefit reconciliations.
  • Experience with Peoplesoft/Oracle systems.
  • Certifications: Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) or Certified Payroll Professional (CPP)

Operation of a State Vehicle
No
Supervises Employees
No
Required Travel
Less than 5%.
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
CLS_4697P
Recruitment Type
General Public - G
Number of Vacancies
1
Position End Date (if temporary)
Job Open Date
08/31/2026
Job Close Date
09/09/2026
Open Until Filled
Agency Website
www.ssc.vccs.edu
Contact Name
Email
Phone Number
Special Instructions to Applicants
In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth's Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly called a Certificate of Disability) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans may also apply via the AHP if they also provide an AHP Letter. To request an AHP Letter, use this link: https://www.dars.virginia.gov/drs/cpid/PWContact.aspx or call DARS at 800-552-5019, or DBVI at 800-622-2155
Additional Information
Hybrid telework available!
Sponsorship will not be offered for this position.
Background Check Statement Disclaimer
The selected candidate's offer is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background investigation, which may include: fingerprint checks, local agency checks, employment verification, verification of education, credit checks (relevant to employment). Additionally, selected candidates may be required to complete the Commonwealth's Statement of Economic Interest. For more information, please follow this link: http://ethics.dls.virginia.gov/
EEO Statement
The Virginia Community College System (VCCS) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, political affiliation, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or other non-merit factors.
ADA Statement
The Virginia Community College System (VCCS) is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and complies with the Americans with Disabilities Acts (ADA and ADAAA), to provide, reasonable accommodation to applicants in need of access to the application, interviewing, and selection processes when requested.
E-Verify Statement
VCCS uses E-Verify to check employee eligibility to work in the United States. You will be required to complete an I-9 form and provide documentation of your identity for employment purposes.
Quicklink for Posting
https://jobs.vccs.edu/postings/100262