Studio Operations Manager

Social Studies Projects

www.socialstudies.info

About Us

Social Studies Projects is a progressive design practice based in Los Angeles, founded in the belief that historically grounded, one-of-a-kind spaces can transform the way we live. We work across a variety of scales, from renovations, additions and new-build construction to full service interior design, custom furniture, design consulting, exhibitions, and objects.

Rooted in the California culture of grassroots experimentalism, collectivity, and innovation, our work draws inspiration from historic precedents across multiple disciplines to create detail-driven, original projects for modern inhabitants — in Los Angeles and beyond. Though our work is grounded in conceptual ideals, we are realists. Therefore, we strive to blend the obsessive energy of a boutique design studio with the practicality and professionalism of a structured outfit.

Our favorite projects embody a thoughtful response to context — climate, geography, culture, materiality, and history each play a part. From this foundation, we prioritize warmth, simplicity, craft, and wit in the spaces we create.

Position Overview

We are seeking a Studio Operations Manager to lead the smooth and efficient functioning of the studio. This role ensures that day-to-day operations, systems, and resources support SSP’s creative work, while providing proactive support to the Principal and design team. The Studio Operations Manager contributes to the development and maintenance of internal processes, communications, and studio culture, helping the team work more effectively and sustainably.

Responsibilities

Manage day-to-day studio operations, including scheduling, inventory, technology, library, vendor coordination, and internal organization.
Manage project billing, contract communications, and client invoicing.
Oversee new project onboarding, including prospective client experience, proposal development, portfolio publication, and assistance with RFPs/RFQs.
Provide proactive support to the Principal, including calendar management, travel and meeting coordination, correspondence, and partnership on studio mechanics, team mentorship, and business development.
Development and maintenance of office standards, including documentation and support for internal procedures, naming conventions, file structures, and best practices.
Lead hiring, interviewing, and onboarding processes for new staff.
Coordinate external communications and marketing efforts with our public relations team, including social media and website.

Requirements

Qualifications

Authorized to work in the United States.
Bachelor’s Degree or higher, or equivalent work experience.
Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience, including demonstrated success in a similar role.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Experience in hospitality or client experience.
Exceptional organizational skills with acute attention to detail and accuracy.
Strong analytical, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to adapt to change within an evolving and growing environment.
High level of personal integrity and the ability to exercise discretion and maintain confidentiality.
Friendly and outgoing personality, with strong people skills and a genuine desire to help others.
Comfort interfacing with clients on matters of contract language and/or billing.
Must be able to travel to project sites, vendor locations, and meetings as needed. Reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license may be required for duties involving offsite travel.
Knowledge of software including but not limited to: Adobe Creative Cloud, Slack, QuickBooks, Monograph or equivalent, Google Drive/Docs/Sheets, and Zoom.

An ideal candidate will have experience within architecture or interiors, but we encourage candidates with strong systems and operations experience from adjacent creative fields to apply.

Benefits

Social Studies Projects is committed to offering a competitive salary commensurate with experience and provides a robust benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; Paid Time Off (PTO); and a 401(k)-retirement account with a matching contribution. This is a full-time, exempt, in-office position with flexibility to work remotely every other Friday.

How to Apply

Social Studies Projects believes our team’s diversity is essential to the breadth, process and quality of our design work. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and encourage applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, including those historically underrepresented in architecture and design. All applicants must be authorized to work in the United States to be considered for this position.

Please send a cover letter and resume to work@socialstudies.info with the subject line “Application: Studio Operations Manager – Your Name”.

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