Program Operations Specialist

Position Summary:

The Program Operations Specialist facilitates the book and materials portion of our Storytime Program by organizing and leading the purchasing, receipt, packing, and distribution of books and other program supplies to volunteers and sites. The Program Operations Specialist is responsible for the development and maintenance of publisher relationships to ensure that Ready Readers remains able to purchase the highest quality books for our program. The Program Operations Specialist also maintains in-kind book donations, assists with database entry and correspondence, and tracks inventory and warehouse needs. Other responsibilities include assisting with facilities management, maintenance needs, and supply ordering for the organization.

Primary Responsibilities:

Program Books and Supplies

• Leads book and supply distribution by assembling materials, creating project timeline, coordinating volunteer assistance, ordering packing supplies, packing boxes, and leading the book pick-up process.
• Establishes and maintains relationships with book publishers, including a sourcing strategy to better align Ready Readers with key publisher partners.
• Negotiates pricing, issues purchase orders, and manages design process for all Ready Readers Storytime Program books to ensure quality and budget adherence.
• Sorts in-kind book donations, maintains associated spreadsheets, and sends thank you letters.
• Gathers outgoing donations for special events, festivals, and collaborations according to requested timing. Arranges for delivery and pick-up.

Program Inventory

• Leads annual inventory count and special project inventory evaluations.
• Maintains consistent and accurate inventory recordkeeping.
• Tracks and records book returns into the inventory system.
• Assists Program Director with inventory database ideas and implementation of new technology to improve user friendliness and data accuracy.
• Verifies book and supply purchase invoices and submits them to accounting for payment.

Program and Organization Support

• Continuously evaluates warehouse flow in accordance to needs of the organization. Implements changes as needed.
• Orders general office supplies as needed.
• Manages the facilities, maintenance, and other operational needs of the organization.
• Assists with fall volunteer and site registration.
• Engages with volunteers and donors both in and outside of the Ready Readers office.
• Assists with database entry and program correspondence.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Strong commitment to the Ready Readers mission.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience required. Experience in operations/supply chain is preferred. Experience working with volunteers is helpful.
• Exceptional organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills required.
• Detail-oriented and able to maintain accurate records.
• Ability to coordinate and prioritize multiple tasks, set deadlines, and complete projects in a timely manner is essential.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to build and maintain publisher relationships.
• Must be punctual, dependable, a self-starter, and possess the ability to work independently.
• Experience and comfort using Microsoft Office Suite (especially Word and Excel) required. Proficiency using Zoom and working in a database preferred.
• Must be able to lift/carry up to 30 pounds. Must be able to walk/stand for extended periods of time (up to 2 hours).

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should send a letter of interest, salary requirements, and resume to hr@readyreaders.org by March 17.  The subject line should read OS (last name).

About Ready Readers:

Ready Readers is a local nonprofit organization serving over 13,000 children in the St. Louis area. Our mission is to expand literacy for young children in low-income communities through high-quality books, strong relationships, and literacy related experiences. To learn more, please visit: www.readyreaders.org.

Ready Readers is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable work environment and strongly encourages applications from people of color, persons with disabilities, and LGBTQIA individuals.