NPS Field Laboratory Operations Lead - 28526

Job Description

The Naval Postgraduate School Field Laboratory (NPSFL) Operations Lead is responsible for the overall management, operation, and sustainment of the NPS field laboratory facilities. This role enables safe, compliant, and effective use of controlled ground, air, and electromagnetic spectrum environments in support of research, testing, training, and education activities for students, faculty, and partner organizations.

The Field Laboratory Operations Lead serves as the primary authority for operations at McMillan Airfield and associated field sites, supporting Joint Interagency Field Experimentation (JIFX), unmanned systems (UxS) research, networking experiments, and other spectrum‑dependent projects.

Essential Job Responsibilities

• Manage day‑to‑day operations of NPS Field Laboratory facilities, grounds, and airfield to ensure safe, mission‑ready conditions.
• Coordinate maintenance, repairs, construction support, and contracted services.
• Support faculty, students, and partners conducting research, testing, and field experimentation by scheduling and coordinating facility, airspace, and range use.
• Lead, train, and supervise full‑time, part‑time, and subcontract personnel.
• Oversee readiness and maintenance of vehicles, generators, communications gear, and field equipment.
• Manage logistics including shipping, receiving, storage, procurement, and property accountability.
• Maintain required administrative documents, safety procedures, and compliance with DoD, Navy, NPS, and Camp Roberts policies.
• Coordinate operations and safety activities with Camp Roberts staff, external agencies, and partner organizations.
• Ensure security of facilities, equipment, and research environments and support emergency response procedures as required.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field and 6 years of relevant experience; OR
• Master’s degree in a related field and 4 years of relevant experience; OR
• High school diploma or equivalent and 10 years of relevant experience.

Knowledge & Skills

• Experience in field laboratory operations, facility management, airfield or range operations.
• Ability to work independently while coordinating across military, civilian, academic, and interagency partners.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency with computer systems, office software, basic networking, and technical documentation tools.

Security & Credentials

• Must have a current or active DoD secret security clearance.
• Ability to obtain and maintain base/facility access.
• Ability to meet all DoD and NPS security, safety, and operational requirements.

Preferred Requirements

• Familiarity with unmanned systems (UxS) operations and applied research environments.
• Knowledge of RF spectrum management and DoD electromagnetic spectrum coordination processes.
• Experience supporting research, experimentation, or field‑based testing activities.

Physical Requirements