Chief Operating Officer - National Security Sciences

Oak Ridge National Laboratory - Oak Ridge, TN

Full-time - Executive

Oak Ridge, TN

5,001-10,000 employees

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) for the National Security Sciences Directorate (NSSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing operational performance and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations. The COO will establish a culture of accountability and excellence, manage operational teams, and lead initiatives to improve performance and reliability in addressing national security challenges. This position plays a critical role in facilitating collaboration across various research disciplines and ensuring the successful execution of strategic goals.

Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain a culture of personal accountability and excellence in operations.
• Ensure work processes follow the 'Plan-Execute-Assess-Improve' cycle for mission accomplishment.
• Collaborate with leadership to ensure compliance and efficiency in programs.
• Facilitate resolution of operational issues through the ORNL Issues Management process.
• Drive operational improvement initiatives across the laboratory.
• Manage directorate facilities and instrumentation in partnership with Division Directors.
• Lead facility planning and participate in strategy development.
• Provide oversight for Strategic Partnership Project proposals.
• Promote an inclusive culture and achieve diversity goals.
• Lead workforce planning and development initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or higher in a scientific or engineering discipline.
• At least 12 years of experience in a scientific or R&D related organization.
• Experience working with major national security organizations.
• Proven experience in managing operational teams for R&D support.
• Demonstrated record of supporting professional development of staff.

Nice-to-haves

• Current DOE security clearance.
• Experience with national security sponsors and stakeholders.
• Understanding of national security research capabilities in the DOE complex.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Well-developed planning and organizational skills.

Benefits

• Medical and retirement plans
• Flexible work hours
• On-site fitness facilities
• Banking services
• Cafeteria facilities
• Prescription Drug Plan
• Dental Plan
• Vision Plan
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Contributory Pension Plan
• Life Insurance
• Disability Benefits
• Generous Vacation and Holidays
• Parental Leave
• Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection
• Employee Assistance Plan
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Health Savings Accounts
• Wellness Programs
• Educational Assistance
• Relocation Assistance
• Employee Discounts