Center Operations Specialist

Center Operations Specialist

About the Role

At the USO, we're more than a workplace—we're a mission. As a Center Operations Specialist, you'll be at the heart of creating a safe, welcoming, and uplifting environment for our service members and their families. You'll play a key role in running daily operations, supporting programs and events, and engaging volunteers—all while delivering memorable experiences that make a real difference in the lives of our military community.

If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy working with people, and want your work to matter, this is the role for you.

What You'll Do

1. Lead Daily Operations – Ensure our Center is clean, safe, and fully equipped. Monitor facilities, supplies, and food-handling standards.
2. Engage Visitors – Welcome service members and their families, answer questions, and ensure they feel supported and valued.
3. Support Programs & Events – Plan, deliver, and evaluate high-quality programs and activities that bring the USO mission to life—on base, in the community, and beyond.
4. Build Community Connections – Collaborate with military partners, local leaders, donors, and media to strengthen awareness and support for the USO.
5. Manage Resources – Track budgets, inventory, and donations with accuracy. Prepare reports and maintain standard operating procedures.
6. Support & Lead Volunteers – Recruit, train, and celebrate volunteers who power our mission. Communicate updates, schedule shifts, and help recognize achievements.
7. Drive Communications – Share stories, photos, and updates for social media and local outlets to showcase the impact of our work.
8. Be Flexible – Step in to support other team members and cover leadership roles when needed.

What We're Looking For

Education & Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; higher education a plus.
• 2+ years in event management, marketing, retail, customer service, recreation, or related field. Nonprofit or military community experience preferred.

Skills & Strengths

• Excellent customer service, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong multitasker—able to balance multiple priorities with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and comfort with volunteer management systems/social media platforms. (Experience with Digital Cheetah a plus.)
• Financial awareness: ability to handle donations, reconcile budgets, and track operational data.
• Adaptable, collaborative, and motivated by mission-driven work.

Other Requirements

• Ability to work flexible, non-standard hours, including evenings and weekends.
• Willingness to travel up to 25%.
• Must be able to obtain necessary credentials to access USO locations and facilities (including background check).
• Valid U.S. passport and driver's license required (foreign license may be required depending on location).
• General knowledge of the military community strongly preferred.

Details

• This position is located at Fort Riley, KS. Preference will be given to local candidates within commuting distance to the location.
• Resume and cover letter are required for full consideration.
• Background check – education, criminal and driving required.
• The statements contained herein describe the scope of the responsibility and essential functions of this position but should not be considered to be an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned including work in other areas to cover absences or relief to equalize peak work periods or otherwise balance the workload.

Why Join Us?

• Make a direct impact on the lives of service members and their families.
• Work in a mission-driven, people-focused culture.
• Gain hands-on experience in operations, event management, communications, and volunteer leadership.
• Grow in an organization with global reach and a proud history of service.

If you're ready to combine your skills with purpose—and want to be part of an organization that stands behind our military every day—apply now.