Merit & Merit Park

About Merit & Merit Park

For 14 years, Merit has helped young people create their own future. We remove barriers to success through individually-focused programs, products, and places that transform mindsets and skills. Using a youth-centered approach, we provide innovative programming that keeps young people engaged, using fashion, entrepreneurship, and athletics as tools for learning and growth.

Merit Park is where Detroit youth will come to learn, explore career opportunities, aspire, connect, and have fun. There will be a lot to do. We’ll host games, programs, and events within our technology-packed gymnasium, all-ages splash pad, obstacle course, miniature turf field, and outdoor shipping container park.

More than a sports and media facility, Merit Park is a stake in the ground. A change agent. It will be a place for the 7,000 young people in our area to spend time in a safe, enriching environment. A place for gatherings and family activities, connection, and support. It will show the world that our community—our people—are worth investing in.

Merit Park is more than a place. It’s the next chapter in our story of community transformation.

Our Core Tenets

It Feels Like Home - Merit Park is a community sanctuary where young people feel seen, supported, and empowered. It's the neighborhood's backyard, where names are remembered, and encouragement is always present.

It’s Built to Move You - Physically, emotionally, and mentally, Merit Park brings energy. Our high-quality spaces invite youth to push themself and try something new. This place lifts them up.

It’s Powered by People - team, partners, and community, are our secret sauce. We prioritize service, strong relationships, and relentless positivity. Everything we do reflects our mission: to inspire, prepare, and empower Detroit's youth.

Position Summary

As a key leader at Merit Park, you will shape the daily experience, culture, and long-term success of the park. You lead by doing, working alongside your team and staying connected to the community we serve. No task is too small or too large; our most effective leaders are hands-on, visible, and deeply involved in the rhythm of park operations. Your energy sets the tone, your collaboration builds team pride, and your commitment ensures exceptional experiences for every visitor and staff member. Every initiative you drive and every moment you support contributes directly to the impact, sustainability, and spirit of Merit Park.

Key Responsibilities

• Leads the establishment of operational functions at Merit Park to ensure quality and consistency across programs and operations.
• Codevelops the facility’s quarterly business plan with the VP of Merit Park.
• Assists department leads in the execution of facility regular programming and special events.
• Performs daily walk-through inspections to ensure that all areas of the facility are clean, neat, organized, and like new.
• Studies member feedback to ensure the best member experience.
• Monitors budgets, grants, and forecasts revenue and expenses for each department monthly/quarterly/annually.
• Monitors supplies, payroll, cost of goods, and expenses for each department monthly/quarterly/annually.
• Mentors the Directors to ensure continuous growth through training, developing, assessing performance, and providing feedback.
• Co-facilitates Weekly Director Meetings.
• Participates in a quarterly assessment in partnership with the VP, Merit Park, and Co-Founders.
• Supports new hires, promotions, employee status changes, and terminations with the Department Managers.
• Supports fundraising initiatives, strategic partnerships, or operational efficiencies
• Guides and executes monthly staff development

Qualifications

Required Skills & Experience

• Must be a U.S. Citizen or Green Card Holder & live within commuting distance.
• HS Graduate or Equivalent
• 7+ years of operational experience in the fitness, hospitality, healthcare, or retail industry
• 3+ years of management experience required
• Understanding of computer software such as Microsoft Excel, Word, Google Drive, and Project Management Software.
• Excellent interviewing techniques
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, reach, climb, and raise up to 50 pounds
• Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities

Preferred Skills & Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in Business or a related field
• CPR and AED Certified
• Experienced athlete or experience working with youth

As an organization, we are committed to an inclusive, diverse, and equitable workplace that respects and celebrates the unique contributions of each individual while ensuring we remain an equal opportunity employer that recruits, hires, trains, and promotes based on merit and qualifications.

Compensation & Benefits

• $100k-115K annually. Exact compensation may vary based on skills and experience.
• Complimentary Merit Park Family Membership
• Generous vacation days, sick time, and holidays
• Opportunities for career development and further education are available

Why Work at Merit Park

This role offers a unique opportunity to help launch and lead a transformational space for Detroit youth. The Senior Director of Operations will play a critical role in shaping a safe, welcoming environment where young people can explore, connect, and imagine new futures.