What are the responsibilities and job description for the Operations Manager position at Heather Gardens Association?
OPERATIONS MANAGER
???? Aurora, CO
???? $85,000 – $108,000 annually
ABOUT HEATHER GARDENS
Heather Gardens Association (HGA) is a vibrant 55 residential community located in Aurora, Colorado. We are committed to providing exceptional service and maintaining a welcoming, well-managed environment for our residents. Our team members are dedicated professionals who value collaboration, integrity, and a shared sense of purpose in supporting a thriving community.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Operations Manager is a key leadership role responsible for overseeing Maintenance, Painting, Custodial, Contracts/Special Projects, and Roads & Grounds operations across the community.
This position partners closely with the General Manager to drive operational excellence, ensure high-quality service delivery, and support long-term strategic planning. The Operations Manager serves as a trusted leader, guiding multiple departments, developing staff, and ensuring that community standards are consistently met.
This role is designed to evolve into a General Manager-level position and may serve as acting General Manager when needed.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Operational Leadership & Strategic Planning
- Provide overall leadership and direction for Maintenance, Painting, Custodial, Contracts/Special Projects, and Roads & Grounds operations across the community
- Develop and implement short- and long-term operational plans aligned with organizational goals and Board priorities
- Translate strategic initiatives into actionable work plans, timelines, and measurable outcomes
- Continuously assess operational performance and adjust priorities, staffing, and resources to meet evolving needs
Budgeting, Financial Oversight & Resource Management
- Partner with the General Manager and Finance to develop and manage annual operating and capital budgets
- Monitor financial performance, identify variances, and implement cost-control strategies
- Evaluate and prioritize expenditures to ensure alignment with operational goals and financial sustainability
- Support reserve planning and long-term capital improvement forecasting
- Review and negotiate vendor contracts to ensure service quality, cost-effectiveness, and accountability
Leadership, Team Development & Accountability
- Lead, coach, and develop department managers and supervisors across multiple operational functions
- Establish clear performance expectations and drive accountability through consistent performance management
- Partner with Human Resources on recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, and retention strategies
- Promote a culture of professionalism, teamwork, safety, and continuous improvement
- Identify and develop future leaders, supporting succession planning across departments
Maintenance, Infrastructure & Asset Management
- Oversee the maintenance, repair, and long-term sustainability of all buildings, infrastructure, and community assets
- Ensure effective work order management, prioritization, and timely completion of tasks
- Monitor preventative maintenance programs and ensure adherence to operational standards
- Ensure compliance with all applicable codes, regulations, and safety requirements
- Coordinate and oversee contractors, vendors, and third-party service providers
Resident Experience & Service Delivery
- Establish and reinforce a high standard of customer service across all operational departments
- Ensure timely, professional, and effective response to resident service requests and concerns
- Support teams in resolving complex or escalated issues with a solutions-focused approach
- Maintain alignment with community standards, governing documents, and operational expectations
Communication, Reporting & Organizational Alignment
- Provide regular operational updates, insights, and recommendations to the General Manager
- Prepare and present reports on performance metrics, budgets, and operational initiatives
- Identify risks, challenges, and opportunities, and proactively communicate solutions
- Support cross-functional collaboration to ensure alignment across departments
Board & Committee Engagement
- Support the General Manager in preparing operational reports and recommendations for Board and committee meetings
- Attend and present at Board and committee meetings as required
- Provide subject matter expertise on maintenance, infrastructure, and operational matters
- Develop working knowledge of governing documents, policies, and regulatory considerations
Risk Management, Safety & Emergency Response
- Lead and support response to operational incidents, emergencies, and property-related issues
- Promote and enforce safety programs, policies, and risk mitigation practices
- Coordinate with emergency services, vendors, and internal teams during critical situations
- Support insurance claims processes, including documentation and vendor coordination
Executive Leadership & Decision-Making
- Exercise independent judgment in managing day-to-day operations and prioritizing organizational resources
- Serve as a trusted advisor to the General Manager on operational strategy and execution
- Act as the General Manager in their absence, with delegated authority as appropriate
- Contribute to executive-level decision-making, long-term planning, and organizational leadership initiatives
QUALIFICATIONS
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Facilities Management, Construction Management, or related field (preferred)
- 5–10 years of progressive experience in:
- Operations management
- Facilities, maintenance, or infrastructure oversight
- Multi-department leadership
- Experience managing multiple teams and operational functions
- Experience in community association, property management, municipal, or similar environment preferred
- Experience managing operating budgets and capital planning
- Experience overseeing vendor services and contracts
Skills
- Strong leadership and team development capabilities
- Operational planning and execution across multiple departments
- Financial acumen (budgeting, forecasting, cost control)
- Knowledge of building systems, maintenance operations, and grounds management
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Ability to manage competing priorities in a dynamic environment
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management (staff, residents, Board)
- Ability to operate at both strategic and hands-on levels
Certifications (Preferred)
- CMCA (Certified Manager of Community Associations) – required within 12 months of hire
- AMS or PCAM preferred
BENEFITS
Heather Gardens offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package that begins the 1st of the month following 30 days of employment, including:
- Medical Insurance – Multiple plan options through Aetna & Kaiser
- Health Savings Account (HSA)
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
- Dental and Vision Coverage
- Employer-Paid Life Insurance & Disability Coverage (with optional buy-up plans)
- 401(k) Retirement Plan with 5% company match
- Paid Holidays
- Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
- MetLife Voluntary Benefits
- Pet Wellness Benefits
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Uniform & Shoe Allowance (for eligible positions)
We support work-life balance and provide resources designed to support your health, financial security, and overall well-being.
WHY JOIN HGA?
- High-impact role with visible results
- Work directly with executive leadership and Board
- Opportunity to shape long-term capital strategy
- Stable, mission-driven organization with strong community values
Apply today and be part of a team dedicated to excellence in community living.
Salary : $85,000 - $108,000