OLA Business Operations Manager

University of Chicago - Chicago, IL

Full-time - Mid Level

Remote - Chicago, IL

Educational Services

About the position

The OLA Business Operations Manager plays a crucial role in overseeing the logistical and operational support for all language testing conducted on the University of Chicago campus. Reporting directly to the Director of the Office of Language Assessment (OLA), this position is essential for ensuring the stability and growth of the OLA by focusing on accomplishments, strategic objectives, and operational goals of the program. The manager will be responsible for maintaining, enhancing, and developing administration and business processes, outreach, communication, registration, scheduling, analysis, reporting, preparing test materials, and managing OLA accounts and budgets. The role requires a deep understanding of language assessment principles and practices, as well as the ability to collaborate effectively with various stakeholders, including faculty, students, and administrative personnel. In addition to overseeing the administration of academic reading comprehension assessments and foreign language proficiency certifications, the OLA Business Operations Manager will also be involved in the development of new test programming and the implementation of new technologies to support the growth of OLA test products. The position requires meticulous attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work independently as well as part of a team. The manager will also be responsible for advising students on test formats, eligibility, and OLA policies, ensuring that all communications are accurate and detailed. This role offers a hybrid work schedule, allowing for flexibility in work arrangements while maintaining a strong presence in the office to support ongoing initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Administers academic reading comprehension assessments (ARCAs), foreign language proficiency certifications (FLPCs), and college language proficiency assessments, ensuring accuracy and fairness.
• Keeps track of new tests and updated test versions, soliciting corrections and changes as necessary.
• Prepares test materials for distribution on test days, ensuring all materials are ready and accurate.
• Collaborates with OLA Director, OLA Assessment Specialist, and CLC Director on new test development and updates.
• Works with CLC Operations Manager to stay updated on hardware and software necessary for virtual test administration.
• Communicates effectively with test developers, graders, and raters regarding new tests and updates.
• Maintains a deep understanding of language assessment principles to optimize test material production.
• Plans and schedules test administration throughout the academic year, including summer sessions.
• Oversees registration for tests, ensuring eligibility and accommodations for students as needed.
• Collects and secures completed tests, processing them for grading and rating.
• Manages test results, reporting to appropriate parties and providing documentation to test takers.
• Maintains a database of test results for research and other purposes.
• Organizes annual informational meetings with College advisers to provide updates and troubleshoot issues.
• Advises students on test eligibility and requirements, using multiple information sources.
• Develops skills to lead program development and identify new technologies for OLA test products.
• Creates operational work plans, implements new systems, and anticipates resource needs.
• Assists CLC and OLA leadership with entrepreneurial initiatives, including report preparation and business plan development.
• Stays updated on trends and technologies relevant to language assessment and testing.
• Serves as a key communication point for all aspects of OLA with various stakeholders.
• Updates OLA's websites and registration documents, ensuring all information is current and accurate.
• Coordinates quality assurance reviews and recommends changes as necessary.

Requirements

• Minimum of a college or university degree in a related field.
• 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience managing finances or budgets.
• Experience working in academic contexts with faculty and administrative personnel.
• Experience managing communications initiatives, especially event outreach and marketing.
• Experience managing data using spreadsheets, databases, and survey platforms such as Qualtrics.
• Expertise in multimedia, including WordPress websites and video creation.
• Knowledge of ACTFL Guidelines and OPI testing, including OPI Certification.
• Familiarity with assessment methodologies and the ability to develop demonstrations or manuals.
• Proficiency in graphic design programs for editing and proofreading communications.
• Proficiency in financial and budgeting systems, as well as spreadsheet or accounting software.
• Proficiency in Workday or other human resource software.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud products or other graphic design tools.
• Native speaker of English and knowledge of at least one foreign language.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage
• Paid holidays
• Flexible scheduling
• Professional development opportunities
• Tuition reimbursement
• Wellness programs