1

External Operations Manager Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Operations Manager 5

Minneapolis, MN ยท On-site

$105K - $124K/yr

Ensures quality service and effective operations support for all assigned internal and external ... and management skills - Ability to manage multiple tasks If there's anything we can do to ...

Operations Manager 5

Minneapolis, MN ยท On-site

$105K - $124K/yr

Ensures quality service and effective operations support for all assigned internal and external ... and management skills - Ability to manage multiple tasks If there's anything we can do to ...

Operations Manager (MSP)

Minneapolis, MN ยท On-site

$72K - $90K/yr

The Operations Manager will be a part of our airport leadership team, reporting to the General ... Build and foster internal and external stakeholder relationships & serve as a trusted member of ...

Operations Manager (MSP)

Minneapolis, MN ยท On-site

$72K - $92K/yr

The Operations Manager will be a part of our airport leadership team, reporting to the General ... Build and foster internal and external stakeholder relationships & serve as a trusted member of ...

Operations Manager (MSP)

Minneapolis, MN ยท On-site

$72K - $90K/yr

The Operations Manager will be a part of our airport leadership team, reporting to the General ... Build and foster internal and external stakeholder relationships & serve as a trusted member of ...

Operations Manager (MSP)

Minneapolis, MN ยท On-site

$72K - $92K/yr

The Operations Manager will be a part of our airport leadership team, reporting to the General ... Build and foster internal and external stakeholder relationships & serve as a trusted member of ...

Showing results 21-40

External Operations Manager information

See Minnesota salary details

$30.4K

$62.1K

$116.1K

How much do external operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for external operations manager in Minnesota is $62,150.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,200.00 and $75,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an external operations manager do?

An External Operations Manager oversees and coordinates a company's activities that involve external partners, vendors, or clients. Their primary responsibilities include managing relationships with suppliers, ensuring contract compliance, and optimizing external workflows to meet business objectives. They also analyze external processes for efficiency, handle negotiations, and often serve as the main point of contact for external stakeholders. This role is crucial for maintaining smooth operations and fostering positive business relationships outside the organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an external operations manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an External Operations Manager, you need strong leadership, project management, and analytical skills, typically supported by a degree in business, logistics, or a related field. Familiarity with supply chain management systems, ERP software, and relevant industry certifications such as PMP or Six Sigma is highly beneficial. Excellent interpersonal skills, negotiation abilities, and adaptability help build effective relationships with external partners and stakeholders. These skills ensure seamless coordination, efficient operations, and the achievement of organizational goals through strong external collaboration.

How does an external operations manager typically collaborate with internal teams and external partners?

An External Operations Manager acts as a crucial liaison between their organization and external partners, such as suppliers, vendors, or logistics providers. They regularly coordinate with internal teams like procurement, sales, and logistics to ensure that external operations align with company goals and standards. Effective communication and negotiation are essential, as the role often involves resolving conflicts, managing expectations, and ensuring smooth workflow across organizational boundaries. Building strong, trust-based relationships is key to successfully managing these collaborations and driving operational efficiency.

What is the difference between External Operations Manager vs Supply Chain Coordinator?

AspectExternal Operations ManagerSupply Chain Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Business, Logistics, or related field; certifications like APICS CSCP or CPSMBachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, or Business; certifications like APICS CPIM or CSCP
Work EnvironmentOversees external partners, vendors, and logistics providers; often involves travel and client interactionCoordinates internal supply chain activities; works closely with procurement, warehousing, and distribution teams
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, retail, and logistics companies managing external relationshipsCommon in manufacturing, retail, and distribution centers focusing on internal supply chain processes

The External Operations Manager focuses on managing external relationships and logistics partners, ensuring smooth operations outside the company. In contrast, the Supply Chain Coordinator handles internal supply chain activities, coordinating between departments to optimize inventory and distribution. Both roles require similar credentials and are vital in supply chain management, but their primary focus and work environment differ.

How much should an external operations manager be paid?

The salary for an external operations manager typically ranges from $70,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Compensation may also include bonuses, benefits, and performance incentives, with higher salaries often associated with larger companies or specialized sectors.

Is an external operations manager a high paying job?

External operations managers typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on industry, experience, and location. They often require strong leadership, project management skills, and industry knowledge, which can contribute to higher compensation levels compared to entry-level roles.

What are popular job titles related to External Operations Manager jobs in Minnesota?

For External Operations Manager jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for External Operations Manager jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most External Operations Manager job openings:

Transit Operations Manager

SouthWest Transit

Eden Prairie, MN โ€ข On-site

$92K - $138K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Salary: $92,000.00 - $138,000.00 Annually
Location : SouthWest Transit-Eden Prairie, MN
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 26-11
Department: Operations
Opening Date: 07/14/2026
Job Summary
The Transit Operations Manager manages daily transit operations, ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient service. This role leads the transit fleet's lifecycle, oversees dispatch workflows, manages driver contracts, and directs long-term transit planning and network development. The ideal candidate maintains operational efficiency, optimizes fleet uptime, and designs service routes to meet community needs
SouthWest Transit is an award-winning Transit agency serving the SouthWest Twin Cities area through bus, on-demand rideshare, and shuttle services. The agency is committed to serving the needs of their customers through diverse and innovative transit solutions that build community and connect customers from where they are to where they want to go.
Mission:
We provide a premium experience for the southwest Twin Cities through safe, reliable, and cost-effective transit that builds community and connects our customers from where they are to where they want to go.
Vision:
SouthWest Transit is the leading provider of innovative transit solutions that improve livability and enhance economic opportunity in the communities we serve.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Lead, coach, and develop a team of dispatch, customer experience, and transit ops staff to ensure continuous communication and smooth daily operations.
  • Manage daily transit operations ensuring system-wide adherence to commission-approved KPIs.
  • Lead the Transit Planner in designing, analyzing, and optimizing transit routes, timetables, and service schedules.
  • Analyze ridership trends and operational data to improve service efficiency, enhance the rider experience, and identify service gaps and expansion opportunities.
  • Prepare operational reports, service performance metrics, and grant proposals for transit development funding.
  • Partner with internal departments, vendors, and external stakeholders to improve public transit services and implement new technologies.
  • Manage and/or partner on comprehensive new-hire training programs focused on safety, equipment operation, and customer experience.
  • Assist in incident investigations, respond to difficult and sensitive issues, identify and report findings and take necessary corrective action.
  • Manage budgets, staffing resources, and operational priorities while continuously identifying opportunities for process improvement.
  • Manage the accurate collection, verification, and timely submission of monthly and annual reports to the FTA National Transit Database, MnDot, MetCouncil, the SWT Commission and others as needed.
  • Work with cross functional teams to map the customer journey, identifying pain points and opportunities for improvement across all touchpoints.
  • Oversee service design and execution.
  • Develop and implement short- and long-term operational strategies that align with agency goals and community needs. Guide long-range transit planning, service standards, and network development.
  • Monitor and improve on-time performance, productivity, service reliability, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency. Utilize data analytics to support operational decision-making and continuous process improvement.
  • Prepare and manage driver ops operating budgets, and monitor expenditures to identify cost-saving opportunities.
  • Collaborate with the Safety and Risk Specialist to minimize incidents and improve safety.
  • Be the liaison between SWT and the driver contractors.
  • Oversee the collection and analysis of customer feedback from various channels including social media, surveys, focus groups, etc..
  • Identify, partner, and execute on opportunities for enhancing customer experience from loyalty programs to appreciation events.
  • Fleet Management
    • Oversee the end-to-end lifecycle of transit vehicles, including capital planning, procurement, deployment, and disposal.
    • Manage fleet performance metrics, fuel consumption, and operational costs using maintenance management software.
    • Ensure all vehicles comply with federal, state, and local safety and regulatory standards.
  • All other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Urban and Regional Planning, Public Administration, or other related field
  • 5-7 years progressively responsible experience in public transportation system with at least 3 years leading teams
  • Proven ability to lead and mentor teams
  • Strong proficiency in scheduling, routing, and mapping software
  • Experience with transit scheduling and run-cutting software, micro-transit operations, transit performance analytics and reporting, geo-spatial analysis, and contract management
  • Embraces SWT values of Purpose, Integrity, Continuous Learning, Innovation, Belonging and Accountable
  • Strong understanding of GTFS and transit data standards, transit funding and grant administration

Preferred: Expertise in Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulations
This role is 100% in office.
SouthWest Transit participates in E-Verify. Upon job acceptance, candidate will be required to complete an I-9 form and provide documentation to verify identity and employment eligibility.
Physical Demands & Working Conditions
Work is indoors in a normal office environment. Occasional lifting of thirty pounds or less is required. Requires a high attention to detail or deadlines between 45% and 70% of the time. A typical workday involves about 85% of the time spent sitting and about 50% or more of the time using a keyboard. However, this varies depending on the season. A significant amount of time is spent handling paper and maintaining files.
We offer the following benefits package to full-time employees:
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Pension plan: PERA (employer contributions vest after 3 years!)
  • PTO: 21 Days Off Per Year!
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Health Savings Account
  • Life and AD&D Insurance and Voluntary Life and AD&D Insurance
  • Voluntary 457 and (Roth) retirement plans
  • 11 Paid Holidays
  • 2 Floating Holidays
  • Long-term Disability Income (60% of base rate of pay)
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Professional Development Assistance
  • Employee Assistance Program

01
The information provided in your application must support your selected answers in the supplemental questions. The information you provide will be verified and documentation may be required. Please be as honest and accurate as possible. You may be asked to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in a work sample or during an interview. By completing this supplemental questionnaire you are attesting that the information you have provided is accurate. Any misstatements, omissions, or falsification of information may eliminate you from consideration or result in dismissal.
  • Yes, I understand and agree
  • No, I do not agree

02
What is the minimum salary you would accept for this position?
03
Do you have experience managing or supervising staff?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question