Operating Manager Jobs in Bellingham, WA (NOW HIRING)

About the Port of Bellingham
The Port of Bellingham is a Washington State special purpose municipal corporation serving all of Whatcom County. It is a unique organization that makes significant contributions to the local community through leveraging its resources by directly participating in revenue-earning lines of business, as well as by capitalizing on its strategic assets through special public agency powers. By using combined expertise in both the business and government sectors, the Port has a role in job preservation and job creation, as well as a role in the operation of transportation facilities for seaports and airports. This combination is distinct from that of either the private sector or other government entities.
The Port's mission statement is to promote sustainable economic development, optimize transportation gateways, and manage publicly owned land and facilities to benefit Whatcom County.
Applicant Instructions
Applicants must submit a cover letter and resume to be considered for the position. Packets not including these documents may be removed from consideration.
This position is open continuously with a first review of candidates after August 23, 2026.
JOB SUMMARY
The Chief Operations Officer (COO) oversees the day-to-day management and performance of the Port's operational divisions, including Aviation, Facilities, and Maritime. Reporting directly to the Executive Director, the COO ensures that Port operations are aligned with the organization's mission, strategic priorities, and commitment to serving the community. This role requires a balance of strategic vision, operational expertise, and collaborative leadership.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Provide oversight, direction, and support to department directors and managers in Aviation, Facilities, and Maritime.
2. Monitor performance metrics and ensure divisional operations are effective, efficient, and fiscally responsible.
3. Lead cross-divisional initiatives to improve coordination, service delivery, and project outcomes.
4. Collaborate with and support the Executive Director and Commissioners on the development and execution of strategic goals and policies.
5. Collaborate with centralized service departments including Finance, Human Resources, Communications, Planning, and Economic Development.
6. Translate strategic vision into operational plans, priorities, and measurable results.
7. Identify opportunities for innovation and continuous improvement in Port services and infrastructure.
8. Oversee divisional budgets, ensuring financial accountability and adherence to Port policies.
9. Support long-term capital planning, investment strategies, and funding approaches.
10. Ensure compliance with federal, state, tribal, and local regulations affecting Port operations.
11. Represent the Port in regional, state, and national forums, building relationships, with key stakeholders, agencies, and community partners.
12. Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, and customer service within Port operations.
13. Advise the Executive Director and Commission on operational matters, risks, and opportunities.
14. Provide mentorship and guidance to division leaders, encouraging professional growth and high performance.
15. Model inclusive, ethical leadership and uphold the Port's values in all decision-making.
16. Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS
Required:

• Bachelor's degree in public administration, business administration, operations management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible senior-level leadership experience in public sector administration, port management, transportation, or related industries.
• Demonstrated track record of managing complex operations, budgets, and capital projects.

Preferred:

• Experience working in a public sector environment.
• Master's degree in public administration, business administration, operations management, or a related field.

LICENSES REQUIRED

• Valid Washington State driver's license is required.
• Must be able to obtain CPR/First Aid certification after hire.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Strong understanding of port operations, facilities, maritime commerce, and aviation.
• Demonstrates strong self-awareness, including insight into personal strengths and growth areas, and actively seek feedback for continuous improvement.
• Approaches challenges with a positive, solutions-oriented mindset, focusing on problem-solving and constructive outcomes.
• Proven ability to lead large teams and diverse operational divisions.
• Excellent organizational, financial management, and project oversight skills.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to balance long-term vision and short-term operational demands.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills with the ability to engage effectively with elected officials, community members, and business leaders.
• Commitment to sustainability, innovation, and community service.

LEVEL OF AUTHORITY
High level of authority responsible for departmental operations, including supervision of others, and economic development at the Port. Decision making could have a major impact on the Port, Port employees, and the public.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
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PHYSICAL DEMANDS
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1-10%
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Occasional
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Frequent
34-66%
3-6 hrs.
Constant
67-100%
6+ hrs.
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At its sole discretion, the Port of Bellingham may consider combinations of education, experience, certifications, and training in lieu of specifically required qualifications contained herein.
Salary Information
The Port typically hires new employees within the first half of the salary range, with starting pay based on the candidate's qualifications and relevant experience. See the salary range under Job Details below.
Benefit Information
Benefits include medical & prescription plans, dental, vision, orthodontia plans, employee assistance program, flexible spending accounts, basic and additional life and AD&D insurance, long-term disability, voluntary long-term care, vacation accrual starting at 28 days off per year, Washington paid sick leave, Washington State pension plans including PERS 2 or 3, deferred compensation, 11 paid holidays, and education assistance.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
The Port provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to any legally protected class, including but not limited to, race, color, citizenship status, ancestry, national origin, gender, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, disability, gender identity, genetic information, or service in the military. Equal employment opportunity governs all aspects of employment, including selection, job assignment, compensation, discipline, termination, and access to benefits and training.
The Port of Bellingham participates in E-Verify.