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Freelance Operations Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Manage external agencies, freelancers, and production vendors, including onboarding and operational coordination. AI & Automation Enablement * Identify opportunities to streamline creative operations ...

Manage external agencies, freelancers, and production vendors, including onboarding and operational coordination. AI & Automation Enablement * Identify opportunities to streamline creative operations ...

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Freelance Operations Manager information

What is a freelance operations manager?

A Freelance Operations Manager is a self-employed professional who oversees and improves the efficiency of business operations for various clients on a contract or project basis. Unlike traditional in-house operations managers, freelancers are hired temporarily to streamline processes, manage teams, implement systems, and solve operational challenges. They often work remotely and may service multiple organizations across different industries, providing flexibility and specialized expertise. Their responsibilities can include workflow optimization, resource allocation, and performance monitoring, all tailored to the specific needs of each client.

What is the difference between Freelance Operations Manager vs Freelance Project Coordinator?

AspectFreelance Operations ManagerFreelance Project Coordinator
CredentialsExperience in operations, project management certifications often preferredProject management experience, certifications like PMP beneficial
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple projects or processes, strategic focusSupports specific projects, task-focused
Employer UsageUsed by companies to manage operational workflowsHired by clients to coordinate project tasks and timelines
Search IntentComparing operational roles, strategic responsibilitiesLooking for project coordination tasks, support roles

The Freelance Operations Manager focuses on overseeing overall business processes and strategic operations, while the Freelance Project Coordinator handles specific project tasks and timelines. Both roles require project management skills and relevant certifications, but their scope and responsibilities differ significantly.

Can you make a lot of money as a freelance operations manager?

Freelance operations managers can earn a wide range of incomes depending on their experience, industry, and client base. Successful freelancers who build strong networks and specialize in high-demand areas can charge premium rates, potentially leading to higher earnings. However, income stability varies and depends on consistent client acquisition and project volume.

What's the average pay for a freelance operations manager?

The average pay for a freelance operations manager typically ranges from $30 to $80 per hour, depending on experience, industry, and project scope. Many freelancers charge project-based fees or retainers, with annual earnings varying widely based on workload and client base.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance operations managers when working with multiple clients simultaneously?

Freelance Operations Managers often encounter the challenge of juggling the unique processes, expectations, and communication styles of multiple clients at once. Managing competing deadlines and ensuring consistent quality across various projects can require strong organizational and time-management skills. Effective use of digital tools for project management and clear, proactive communication are essential to avoid misunderstandings and maintain client satisfaction. Building strong relationships with each client while maintaining professional boundaries is also key to long-term success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance operations manager?

To thrive as a Freelance Operations Manager, you need strong organizational, project management, and analytical skills, often supported by a degree in business or a related field. Familiarity with project management tools (like Asana or Trello), CRM systems, and proficiency in spreadsheets are typically required, alongside relevant certifications such as PMP or Lean Six Sigma. Exceptional communication, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities help you efficiently manage diverse clients and shifting priorities. These competencies enable you to streamline operations, deliver results, and build trust with clients in a dynamic freelance environment.

How much should a freelance operations manager be paid?

Freelance operations managers typically charge between $30 and $100 per hour, depending on experience, industry, and project scope. Some may prefer project-based fees or retainer agreements, especially for long-term or complex tasks. Rates can vary based on location, skills, and the level of responsibility involved.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operations Manager jobs in California? The most popular types of Operations Manager jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Operations Manager jobs in California? For Freelance Operations Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Operations Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Operations Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Freelance Operations Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Freelance Operations Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Freelance Operations Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

CREATIVE OPERATIONS MANAGER

Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.

Chico, CA • On-site

$98K - $153K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Sierra Nevada Brewing rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

57th of 436 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Get to Know Us
Ken Grossman started Sierra Nevada in 1980 with a hand-built brewhouse and the odds stacked against him. That passion forever changed the course of American craft brewing and launched a beer revolution that's in full force today. Turns out, good beer can do a lot of good, and Sierra Nevada became a cornerstone for both its innovation and its care for the Earth and its people. We're committed to advancing a culture of inclusion and believe diversity in all its forms makes us stronger. We keep pushing boundaries, whether that's in the brewhouse, with sustainability, or in the great outdoors.
Get to Know This Role
The Creative Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing the planning, resourcing, and execution of all creative work across Sierra Nevada. This role ensures the right mix of in-house talent, freelancers, and vendors are deployed against business priorities to deliver high-quality, on-time creative outputs. Acting as the operational backbone of the creative function, this leader partners closely with creative leadership to translate briefs into actionable project and resource plans, managing workflow, vendor partnerships, budgets, and production timelines. Success in this role requires strong project management skills, vendor and resource oversight, and seamless cross-functional communication to keep creative work moving efficiently and effectively across the organization.
What's In It For You
We're committed to our employees and work hard to prove it. For starters, we're offering $98,279 to $153,315 base compensation for this role. Individual offers are based on skills, experience, and qualifications. This role may be eligible for our bonus program - inquire with our Talent Acquisition Partner for additional details.
But base pay is just the beginning. We support your future by offering a generous 10% company match on 401(k) contributions, providing learning and development opportunities, and fostering your safety at work with ongoing trainings, state-of-the-art equipment, and preventative care. We offer medical, dental, and vision insurance, an onsite medical clinic, as well as mental health and well-being benefits including paid sick leave. We foster a culture of work-life balance and always encourage employees to use and enjoy their paid time off.
What You Will Do
  • Design and maintain master project templates that cascade into tactical content projects, ensuring alignment between strategic initiatives and creative production. Provide clear and regular updates to stakeholders on project status, resourcing, and timelines. Leverage our resource management tools to forecast creative capacity needs and make recommendations for optimized execution.
  • Support creative leadership to align resourcing and project plans to creative priorities and business objectives.
  • Oversee our in-house creative team providing coaching, support and connection to resources.
  • Manage the end-to-end production process, from intake through delivery, ensuring work is delivered on time, on budget, and at the highest quality standards.
  • Serve as the central point of contact for creative resourcing, balancing internal bandwidth with external vendor partnerships (freelancers, agencies, photographers, printers, etc.).
  • Partner with brand managers, innovation managers, and integrated marketing channel leads to clarify project scope, timelines, and resource requirements.
  • Develop and maintain vendor relationships, negotiate estimates, and ensure efficient use of external resources.
  • Maintain visibility into workload and capacity across the creative team, proactively solving for resourcing gaps.
  • Work cross-functionally with compliance, supply chain, quality and brewing to ensure the integrity of our quality control systems and packaging deliverables
  • Lead by example, embracing creative conflict and transforming problems into additive solutions. Develop and deliver a playbook for internal partners on creative processes, timeline requirements and quality expectations
  • Select, supervise, and obtain cost estimates from outside vendors such as photographers, designers, paper suppliers, or printers as needed.
  • Ensure all deliverables meet Sierra Nevada's brand standards and quality benchmarks through strong collaboration with creative leadership and creative contributors

Please Apply if You Have
  • Bachelor's Degree in Business Management, creative or project management or similar discipline OR any combination of experience and/or education from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been achieved required

  • 7 years project management, creative operations, or production management experience in an agency or in-house environment (CPG preferred) required and
  • 4 years leadership experience required

  • Basic knowledge of Adobe Creative suite; ability to check and maneuver creative files
  • Strong project management and organizational skills with a track record of managing multiple, complex projects simultaneously with experience in production planning, vendor management and budget oversight.
  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey plans and updates across creative and commercial teams.
  • Familiarity with creative workflows and production processes (print, digital, packaging, photography, video and html)
  • Proficient in project management tools (i.e. Wrike, Workfront, Smartsheet) a plus
  • Ability to foster cross-functional relationship and influence without direct authority
  • Thrives in a deadline-driven, fast-paced environment

Additional Requirements to Consider Before Applying
  • You must be at least 21 years of age to work for Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
  • Selected candidate must pass a pre-employment, post offer background check.

Before applying for this role, please review the full job description, including the physical demands and working environment: https://sierranevada.jdxpert.com/ShowJob.aspx?EntityID=2&id=3794
** This position will remain open until filled; online applications will be reviewed weekly **
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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