Technical Operations Leader

Scope of Position

The Technical Operations Leader leads day-to-day operations for the Technical Project Support (TPS) group and Division Engineering Labs. This role is responsible for setting priorities, coordinating staffing and schedules, and ensuring safe, high-quality execution in support of project and customer needs. The position also provides people leadership through coaching, performance feedback, and development, while driving process improvement, capital project execution, and capability-building systems aligned with CET Vital Few and Plan of Record priorities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead safe daily operations across supported process and lab areas, including regulatory compliance and IP protection
• Set priorities, allocate resources, and adjust staffing to meet project demand and customer commitments
• Supervise, coach, and support technicians in daily execution and problem solving
• Lead performance reviews, development planning, and talent processes for direct reports
• Drive continuous improvement through standard work and operational discipline
• Lead process and capital projects in partnership with Engineering, Development, Manufacturing, Quality, and EHS
• Develop and sustain cross-training, qualification, and recertification systems to strengthen capability, flexibility, and coverage
• Manage departmental spending for TPS and Division Engineering Labs
• Communicate priorities, risks, and resource needs with a clear, no-surprises operating cadence

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree required
• 5+ years of manufacturing experience or equivalent military experience
• Experience leading cross-functional process and capital projects
• Experience developing training, qualification, or capability-building systems for technical teams
• Demonstrated supervisory effectiveness, including coaching, conflict resolution, and effective listening
• Proven ability to deliver results, meet customer commitments, and drive process improvement
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of CET manufacturing processes
• Strong practical and structured problem-solving skills
• Experience supporting or leading capital projects, including scope, schedule, stakeholder alignment, and basic cost discipline
• Experience developing training or qualification programs in manufacturing or process-based environments

Travel / Work Schedule

• Less than 25% travel. Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with off-hours and weekend support as required.