Chief Operations Officer @ Des Moines Public School District

Des Moines Public Schools invites applications from dynamic, innovative leaders for the 2027–2028 school year. Join us in advancing our Reimagining Education efforts and supporting our school community.

The posted salary range reflects the first quartile through the midpoint of the position's salary range. Compensation will be determined based on skills, relevant work experience, and education. In addition to base salary, this position qualifies for a 14% tax-sheltered annuity (TSA).

Des Moines Public Schools provides single and family health benefits valued at approximately $35,000 annually at no cost to employees. Relocation assistance of up to $6,000 is also available.

Title: Chief Operations Officer

Classification: Non-Licensed Administrator

HIRING SPECIFICATIONS

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• Advanced degree in operations management, education, business administration or related field or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience

Work Experience

• Five years previous supervisory
• Five years experience in implementing multiple functions within large organizations

Licensure or Certification: One of the following certifications, preferred:

• Project Management Professional (PMP)
• Other aligned license or certification in one of the supervisory areas

Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

• Knowledge of federal and state laws related to areas of supervision.
• Ability to analyze facts and make sound decisions based on applicable laws, emerging trends, and the strategic plan.
• Effective written and oral communication and presentation techniques.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong supervisory and leadership skills.
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to quality and accuracy.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Maintain confidentiality.
• Attend work on a prompt and regular basis.
• Maintain satisfactory and harmonious working relationships with the public, students, and other employees.

Job Summary

The Chief Operations Officer (COO) supervises the functions of the Operations department to ensure leadership, vision, and a commitment to advancing education through the operational effectiveness of the organization. As a key member of the Superintendent's Cabinet, the COO provides strategic leadership, fosters collaboration, and ensures the effective utilization of operational resources. The essential functions as shown below represent only the key areas of responsibility; specific position requirements will vary depending on the needs of the district.

Essential Functions

• Provide leadership and oversight to key operational departments including custodial, facilities, preventative maintenance, transportation, food & nutrition, district & school security, and warehouse services.
• Direct the coordination and supervision of the District's long-range capital investment program and construction projects, including planning, prioritization, budgeting, scheduling, contractor oversight, and compliance, to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with the District's facilities and strategic plans.
• Lead cross-functional teams to implement forward-thinking initiatives that enhance operational efficiency and support student outcomes. Streamline processes, enhance productivity, and optimize resource allocation through operational solutions.
• Analyze operational performance metrics and results, comparing them to established objectives/goals. Identify and implement corrective actions to address areas for continuous improvement.
• Evaluate existing systems to identify areas of growth and improvement to ensure the highest quality of efficiency. Leverage the effectiveness of resources, programs, and services throughout the district.
• Oversee annual planning and ongoing monitoring to ensure optimal level of resources (financial, technical, human) to deliver required services that align with budget, strategic plan objectives, and best practices.
• Effectively communicate operational objectives, initiatives, and results to internal and external stakeholders.
• Actively support the efforts of the Board, Superintendent, and colleagues to achieve district goals and objectives.
• Prepare reports and coordinate record keeping in accordance with the requirements of the district, state, and federal programs.
• Attend all Board meetings, serving as a resource person for the Superintendent and Board.
• Maintain professional learning and growth through professional organizations, seminars, course work, and collaboration.
• Other duties, as assigned.

Department: Operations

Reports To: Superintendent

Highest Level Supervised: Director

Bargaining Group: N/A

FLSA Status: Exempt

Calendar: 12 Month / 8.0 Hour Day

Physical Requirements

PHYSICAL DEMAND

FREQUENCY

Standing

Frequent 33% - 66%

Walking

Frequent 33% - 66%

Sitting

Frequent 33% - 66%

Bending/Stooping

Occasional 1% - 32%

Reaching/Pushing/Pulling

Occasional 1%- 32%

Climbing/Stairs

Occasional 1% - 32%

Driving

Occasional 1% - 32%

Lifting (10 lbs.)

Occasional 1% - 32%

Carrying (25 feet)

Occasional 1% - 32%

Manual Dexterity Tasks

Telephone

Frequent 33% - 66%

Computer

Frequent 33% - 66%

Other

Never 0%

Working Conditions

Inside

Constant 67%+

Outside

Occasional 1% - 32%

Extremes of Temperature/Humidity

Occasional 1% - 32%

The Des Moines Independent Community School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. If you have questions, concerns or a complaint related to this policy, please contact Carol Wynn-Green, 901 Walnut Street, Des Moines, IA 50309; phone: 515-242-7709; email: [email protected]. Complaints can also be directed to the Iowa Civil Rights Commission, 400 E. 14th Street, Des Moines, IA 50319-1004, (515) 281-4121, or Region VII Office for Civil Rights, Citigroup Center 500 W. Madison Street, Suite 1475 Chicago, IL 60661-4544.

All candidates offered a position will be required to successfully pass a criminal background check, and a child and adult abuse registry check. Certain positions may require fingerprinting, a drug and alcohol test, a physical capacity test and/or a motor vehicle record check.

Approved By: Matthew Smith

Date: 11/05/2026