Chief Operating Officer - National Security Sciences

Oak Ridge National Laboratory - Oak Ridge, TN

Full-time - Senior

Oak Ridge, TN

5,001-10,000 employees

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is a senior leadership role within the National Security Sciences Directorate (NSSD). The COO is responsible for overseeing operational performance, ensuring compliance with regulations, and fostering a culture of operational excellence. This position involves collaborating with leadership to manage resources effectively, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and ensure the successful completion of research milestones while addressing national security challenges.

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 NSSD leadership to ensure compliance and efficiency in programs.
• Facilitate resolution of operational issues through the ORNL Issues Management process.
• Contribute to ORNL operational improvement initiatives and promote continuous improvement.
• Work with ORNL Management System Owners to support R&D missions effectively.
• Respond to major operational events as part of the ORNL Emergency Response Organization.
• Manage NSSD's facilities and instrumentation to execute strategy effectively.
• Lead facility planning and participate in strategy development and business planning.
• Oversee NSSD's Strategic Partnership Project proposals and ensure success.
• Promote an inclusive culture and achieve diversity goals in the workforce.
• Lead the NSSD Educational Outreach Program to attract diverse talent.

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 within government.
• Proven experience in managing operational teams for R&D support.
• Demonstrated record of supporting professional development of staff.

Nice-to-haves

• A 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.
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment.

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