Job Details: Job Location: Ann Arbor, MI 48108, Salary Range: $105,000.00 - $115,000.00 Salary/year, At Recycle Ann Arbor, we don’t just manage waste, we rethink it. Every day, our work keeps thousands of tons of material out of landfills and puts it back into circulation, conserving resources and cutting emissions across Southeast Michigan.We’re looking for a General Manager of Operations who can turn that mission into execution, someone who thrives in complex, high-volume environments, leads through people, and knows how to bring discipline, clarity, and continuous improvement to operations that directly impact the environment and the community.This is not a maintenance role. It’s a leadership role for someone who wants to build, optimize, and elevate how a mission-driven industrial operation runs. About Recycle Ann ArborRecycle Ann Arbor is a nonprofit focused on practical, scalable zero-waste solutions.Our operations include:Material Recovery Facility (MRF): A modern sorting facility designed to maximize recovery and send material to trusted regional marketsCurbside Recycling: Weekly service that supports residential participation and keeps recyclables out of landfillsRecovery Yard: A construction and demolition recycling facility helping contractors recover usable materialDrop-Off Station: A community resource for recycling and disposal of a wide range of materialsTogether, these programs form a connected system that relies on sound operations, good data, and reliable execution.Why This Role MattersThis role is central to how well our operations perform.You’ll be responsible for:Keeping day-to-day operations organized, safe, and efficientEnsuring that multiple divisions are aligned and meeting expectationsDriving practical improvements that make the system more reliable and cost-effectiveYou’ll also play a key role in developing the managers who run each area. For us, success in this role is measured as much by team strength and consistency as by numbers on a report.Key ResponsibilitiesOperational LeadershipWork with senior leadership to execute operational plans across divisionsSupport division managers in meeting safety, productivity, and quality goalsTrack performance metrics and address gaps in a direct, practical wayProcess ImprovementIdentify inefficiencies and implement changes that improve flow and reduce wasteUse data to guide decisions and prioritize improvementsHelp ensure materials move through the system in a predictable and efficient waySafety &amp; ComplianceMaintain a safe working environment across industrial and outdoor settingsEnsure compliance with DOT, OSHA, and environmental regulationsReinforce safety practices consistently across teamsTeam DevelopmentCoach and support operational managers in their day-to-day leadershipLead regular check-ins and operations meetings to maintain alignmentAddress personnel and labor issues in coordination with leadershipBudget &amp; Operations SupportManage divisional budgets and monitor actual performance vs. planSupport invoicing, reporting, and contractual requirementsAssist with RFPs and proposals by providing operational input and cost clarity What You Bring (Must-Haves)We’re looking for someone with real operational experience, not just oversight.3–5+ years managing multi-site or multi-division operations, preferably in the solid waste/recycling or closely related field required in the solid waste/recycling industry.  Experience supervising managers and holding teams accountable for resultsComfort working with operational data and performance metricsWorking knowledge of DOT, OSHA, or similar regulatory environmentsAbility to operate effectively in both office and field settingsPractical, steady leadership style with a focus on execution and follow-throughStrong communication skills and the ability to work across teams and functionsBonus Points (Nice-to-Haves)Familiarity with commodity markets or material pricingExposure to municipal contracts or public-sector workExperience with RFPs, bids, or grant-funded projectsBackground in continuous improvement or lean practicesWhat Success Looks Like (6–12 Months)Success in this role is visible and measurable:Operations run more consistently, with fewer disruptions and clearer accountabilitySafety standards are maintained and reinforced across all divisionsManagers are more effective, especially in managing their own teamsKPIs are understood, tracked, and used to guide decisions; not just reportedSmall, practical improvements have been implemented and are adding upFinancial and operational performance are more predictable and controlledYou’ll know you’re making an impact when the operation feels more organized, stable, and easier to manage.What We OfferCompensation is $105,000 - $115,000, depending on experience, along with a sign on bonus and relocation assistance for the right candidate. A mission-driven role with tangible environmental and community impactThe opportunity to lead a complex operation that matters locallyA collaborative leadership team that values steady, thoughtful improvementA role where you can see the results of your work in real timeCompetitive compensation and benefits, aligned with nonprofit structures and internal equityCall to ActionIf you’re an experienced operations leader who knows how to keep systems running smoothly, manage people effectively, and improve performance in a hands-on environment, we encourage you to apply.This is a solid, steady role with real responsibility and impact; not a flashy title or a high-compensation executive position. It’s a good fit for someone who values meaningful work, operational ownership, and a chance to make a difference in how materials are recovered and reused.If you meet most of what we’re looking for and are comfortable in a role where execution matters every day, we’d like to hear from you, even if you don’t check every box.  Qualifications: 

<p>Founded in 1977, Recycle Ann Arbor is a nonprofit, zero-waste organization dedicated to providing education and innovative services in the collection, processing, and distribution of recyclable materials. Nationally recognized as an established leader in recycling programs, Recycle Ann Arbor has been instrumental in diverting recyclable waste from landfills and reducing pressure on natural resources.</p>

Operations General Manager

About the Job

About the Company

Recycle Ann Arbor

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