Permanent
Educational Program Operations Specialist/Lead - 18528
Remote, South Africa
remote
Closing date not listed
About this role
Job Description
Operations Specialist / Lead
Role: Operations Specialist / Lead
Location: Remote Salary: Competitive
Contract Type: Independent contractor
Working Hours: US hours - Sydney/Hong Kong Overlap
Overview
We’re hiring a high-ownership Operations Specialist / Lead to run K–12 educational programs end-to-end within a fast-growing, global EdTech environment.
This is not a task-based role — it’s an ownership role. You’ll be responsible for ensuring programs run smoothly, materials are accurate, and participants (students, parents, and teachers) have a seamless experience.
You’ll work directly with founders in a lean, high-performance team that is AI-first, moves quickly, and values reliability, attention to detail, and strong execution.
Key Responsibilities
Own end-to-end program operations:
* Manage execution of K–12 academic programs from planning through delivery
* Ensure all SOPs, timelines, and deliverables are followed and completed on time
* Maintain high standards of quality control across all program materials
Live program delivery & support:
* Facilitate live online sessions and events (primarily via Zoom)
* Handle escalated student, parent, and teacher support queries (AI handles routine tickets)
* Act as the operational point of contact during live programs
Systems & process management:
* Maintain and improve SOPs, checklists, and workflows
* Identify inefficiencies and help streamline operations
AI-powered operations:
* Use AI tools to assist with data collection, content generation, and operational tasks
* Work with internal tools and assist in manual platform testing, flagging bugs/issues to the tech team
Requirements
* Native or near-native English proficiency (clear, neutral accent preferred)
* Background in K–12 education (e.g., teaching, academic programs, or similar)
* Bachelor’s degree required
* Demonstrated ability to own outcomes end-to-end in a fast-paced environment
* Strong written communication skills
* Highly detail-oriented with strong follow-through
* Comfortable interacting with students, parents, and educators in live settings
Technical Skills
* Comfortable using modern tools (Zoom, Google Workspace, etc.)
* Experience using or strong interest in AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, AI agents)
* Quick learner of new systems and workflows
* No coding or automation-building required
Work Model
* Remote-first (~95% of work conducted via Zoom)
* Must have working hour overlap with Hong Kong and Sydney time zones
* Occasional, optional in-person events at US university campuses
* Independent contractor (direct hire) – no benefits included
What Success Looks Like
* Programs launch on time with high accuracy and low error rates
* Smooth execution of live events and strong participant experience
* Fast, effective handling of escalations
* Ability to independently manage operations end-to-end
Ideal Candidate Profile
* Thrives in startup / fast-moving environments and can “figure things out”
* Takes full ownership and doesn’t rely on step-by-step direction
* Naturally organized and enjoys bringing structure to complex systems
* Proactive, reliable, and calm under pressure
* Comfortable doing both strategic thinking and hands-on operational work
Not a Fit If You…
* Prefer rigid roles with clearly defined, narrow responsibilities
* Need constant direction or close supervision
* Dislike operational work, quality control, or follow-through
* Struggle in fast-changing environments
Why Join
* High-growth opportunity with potential to evolve into a senior operations/COO track
* Direct access to founders and real decision-making exposure
* Global impact — support programs reaching ambitious students worldwide
* AI-first environment — gain hands-on experience scaling operations with AI
* Work with a lean, high-caliber international team