Partner Operations Manager Jobs in DeKalb, IL (NOW HIRING)

Why This Role Matters

The South Elgin Clubhouse is evolving into a dynamic program hub—and this role leads that transformation.

We’re moving beyond traditional afterschool care to deliver high-impact, skill-based experiences that guide youth from exploration to real-world readiness. The Operations Manager is the leader who brings this vision to life—someone who can manage complexity, activate community partnerships, and design programs that build toward meaningful outcomes—not just daily activities.

How This Role Lives Our BLUE Values

• Believe – You believe every young person deserves access to transformative opportunities.
• Learn – You use data, feedback, and experimentation to continuously improve.
• Unite – You align staff, partners, and families around shared success.
• Elevate – You push programming beyond the ordinary into intentional, high-impact experiences.

What You’ll Do

Lead High-Impact Programming

• Design and run multi-session programs that build toward showcases, competitions, or capstone projects

• Maximize specialty spaces (STEM lab, art studio, gym) for purpose-driven programming

• Oversee diverse program areas: STEM, arts, academics, athletics, esports, and leadership

Build Teen Workforce Pathways

• Build and oversee Industry Clubs (e.g., Tech, Healthcare, Trades) with hands-on, real-world experiences

• Oversee workforce readiness programs (Career Launch, financial literacy, job shadowing)

• Create pathways to internships, certifications, and career exploration

Manage Partnerships & Grow the Club

• Recruit and manage multiple community partners simultaneously, ensuring high-quality program delivery

• Build strategic partnerships with schools, businesses, and community organizations

• Lead outreach and enrollment efforts, especially for middle and high school youth

• Engage families through events, communication, and program showcases

Run Strong, Safe Operations

• Oversee daily operations, ensuring a safe, structured, high-energy environment

• Ensure spaces, equipment, and resources are safe, clean, and fully optimized for use

• Maintain proper staffing ratios, schedules, facility readiness and program flow

• Lead safety protocols, drills, and compliance

Lead & Develop Your Team

• Supervise and coach Youth Development staff and coordinators

• Establish a culture of accountability, energy, and excellence

• Provide ongoing coaching to ensure staff facilitate intentional, outcome-driven youth experiences

• Lead regular team meetings focused on program quality and youth impact

• Oversee MyClubHub data tracking, including attendance, participation, and outcomes

• Ensure compliance with grants, reporting, and organizational standards

• Use data to adjust programming, improve engagement, and drive results

• Support budgeting, inventory, and operational planning

Data, Administration & Continuous Improvement

• Oversee MyClubHub data tracking, including attendance, participation, and outcomes

• Ensure compliance with grants, reporting, and organizational standards

• Use data to adjust programming, improve engagement, and drive results

• Support budgeting, inventory, and operational planning

What We’re Looking For

• 3–5+ years in youth development, program management, or operations

• Experience leading teen programs or workforce readiness initiatives

• Strong ability to manage multiple programs and partners at once

• Excellent leadership, organization, and communication skills

• Passion for creating meaningful opportunities for youth

What Success Looks Like

• A highly utilized Clubhouse filled with specialized, high-impact programming

• Strong, active community partnerships enhancing daily experiences

• A clear pipeline of youth progressing into Industry Clubs and workforce opportunities

• Programs that build over time and culminate in meaningful outcomes

• A team that is energized, aligned, and delivering excellence every day

Join the BLUE Crew

If you believe that great programs don’t just fill time—but open doors to future careers, confidence, and opportunity—and you’re ready to build something bold, we want you on our team.