Job Description

GENERAL PURPOSE OF THE JOB:

The Associate Product Operations Specialist is responsible for supporting operational excellence within the Product Group (Product Management, Product Operations, & Technical Services). This role blends various supportive responsibilities that range from process ownership, operational support, and system administration to solution design, process optimization, and project management to support cross-functional teams in delivering high-impact product initiatives. The Specialist owns and supports programs, processes, and systems. The role works closely with Product Management, Technical Services, R&D, Marketing, Customer Service, and other business partners.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Serve as the primary owner and administrator for assigned Product Group programs, processes, and tracking systems.

• Manage day-to-day operations for assigned programs, ensuring requests, approvals, documentation, and workflows are completed accurately and on time.

• Maintain and support operational processes such as but not limited to: Item Creation (PIFs), PIM (Product Information Management, Sample Program, Field Trials, Material Returns, Product Exits, UPCs, Policies & Procedures. [EV1][WR2][WR3]

• Monitor program performance, identify bottlenecks or issues, and recommend opportunities for improvement.

• Maintain process documentation, standard operating procedures, forms, workflows, reports, dashboards, and knowledge repositories.

• Provide support to stakeholders by answering questions, resolving process-related issues, and ensuring adherence to established procedures.

• Coordinate activities between Product Management, Technical Services, R&D, Marketing, Customer Service, Manufacturing, and other business partners.

• Collect, validate, maintain, and report on program data to support decision-making and operational visibility.

• Support implementation, administration, and continuous improvement of business systems including Smartsheet, SharePoint, SAP, SafetyCulture, Scribe, and other approved technologies.

• Identify opportunities to automate, standardize, and streamline operational processes and workflows.

• Assist with implementation of new processes, tools, and operational initiatives.

• Facilitate communication and collaboration among stakeholders to ensure alignment and program success.

• Ensure compliance with established procedures, documentation standards, governance requirements, and risk management practices.

• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and contribute to the development of best practices across the Product Group.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

None required. It would be advantageous to have any of the following:

• Intro to BPM (Business Process Management)

  QUALIFICATIONS

• Self-starter who can work independently, take direction when needed, anticipate work needs, organize workflow and follow through with minimal oversight in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Visio, Teams)
• Experience with or willingness to learn Smartsheet, SAP, and workflow design tools
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Experience or interest in process improvement, product operations, or project management.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Proven ability to support projects and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to actively listen, ask questions, and collaborate with team members and stakeholders.
• Organizational Skills: Able to manage multiple tasks, prioritize work, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Technical Aptitude: Basic understanding of product lifecycle processes, business systems, and data management concepts, with a willingness to learn new tools and technologies.
• Execution Focus: Supports project and process activities by following established procedures and completing assigned responsibilities accurately.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Uses analytical thinking and available data to identify issues, recommend solutions, and escalate concerns when appropriate.
• Adaptability: Demonstrates flexibility and a willingness to learn new processes, systems, and responsibilities.
• Integrity: Demonstrates professionalism, accountability, and reliability.
• Relationship Building: Develops positive working relationships and contributes to a collaborative team environment.
• Enthusiasm: Seeks opportunities to learn, improve processes, and add value.