Business Manager

MIT Lincoln Laboratory is a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) which conducts groundbreaking research and development to solve problems that are critical to national security. These efforts range from the development of fundamental new technology to system concept development with an emphasis on prototyping. In support of the Laboratory’s mission, the Structural & Thermal-Fluids Engineering Group, Group 74, provides innovative multidisciplinary engineering solutions for underwater, ground, air, and space-based prototype systems for national security applications. Examples include the development of structural-material systems for space-based imaging and laser communication terminals, thermal management solutions spanning cryogenic to hypersonic applications, and aerodynamic designs and assessments to support unmanned aerial vehicles, airborne pods, and hypersonic platforms. Engineering solutions are developed through the utilization of appropriate technologies coupled with high-fidelity models and multidisciplinary simulations, environmental testing, and the utilization of advanced materials to meet ever increasing performance, size, weight, and environmental challenges. Position Description The Structural & Thermal-Fluids Engineering Group Business Manager is a key member of the Group’s leadership team. We are seeking an experienced Business Manager to join a dynamic group office, encompassing a wide variety of financial, administrative and operations responsibilities. The ideal candidate is a highly-engaged self-starter with strong communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with others to deliver in a fast-paced, multi-faceted environment. A desirable trait would be the ability to learn, adapt, plan and lead through transformational changes that the group or organization is going through. This will include teaming with other functional areas in support of ongoing enterprise improvement. This role requires a high level of professionalism in communications with all parties, a strong level of discretion in handling private and classified information, and an excellent ability to maintain situational awareness of Group, Division and Laboratory level matters. The Business Manager’s role entails management of all aspects of the Group’s administrative and business functions in operations management. As an integral member of Group’s management team, the Business Manager will partner with the Group Office to ensure smooth and efficient operations of the Group. The Business Manager’s financial responsibilities include cost estimation, proposal preparation and new program package submissions, program funding updates, authorization of budget expenditures, and status of both program-specific and overall-group financial health. The Business Manager will also be responsible ensuring the Group’s administrative needs are met, including procurements, property, IT compliance, office and laboratory space planning and labor allocation tracking and reporting. Data analysis and ad hoc reporting is a daily task in a challenging data structure to help guide better decision making. There are five pillars that cover the priorities of this Business Management position: Financial Excellence: cost estimating, budget analysis, spend plan management, business application expertise and financial reporting on program, group health Business Operations: administrative management and supervision, DoD ceiling management, [government fiscal constraints] resource management, policies and procedures, human resources (including contingent worker recruiting and contract management), program staffing support, procurement guidance and support, office and lab space management, security and new programs, IT compliance, navigating obstacles and enabling technical work Communication and Collaboration: written and verbal communication skills, internal and external networking, sponsor interaction and presentations skills, positive ambassador for the Group, promotion of a collaborative environment Initiative and Leadership: self-motivation, independence, critical thinking, continuing education, and promoting efficiency Project Management: proposal preparation, understand goals and objectives, schedule and cost performance, and leadership skills Core responsibilities include: Financial Analysis and Reporting In collaboration with program managers and the Group Office, develop new program packages including initial cost estimates and funding profiles, ensuring consistency between Grey Book write-up, statement of work, quad chart, and anticipated funding entries. [across all required documents and systems] Understand nuances and differences between on contract and off contract programs [various program types and funding sources] along with sponsor specific requirements and preferences are key. Create program/task level cost estimates (in conjunction with program managers) and track budget to actuals. Analyze trends and discrepancies from plan, track milestones and risk assessments. Collaborate with Group Leaders to implement and manage resource planning. Track time allocation compared to plans at the individual level as needed. Proactive teaming with partners outside the group and division to assist with long-term resource requests. Manage program level financial reporting provided to sponsors and program managers. Oversee the group’s operational budgets and long-term investment strategies. Manage and report execution and plans to the group office and up to the division office. Procurement Serves as primary point of contact for all the group’s procurements and actively tracks all critical and long lead-time procurements. Guide technical staff through the steps of the procurement process. Review and edit all statements of work and memorandums of justification for clarity of purpose. Manage the procurement of consultant services and subcontractor labor. Project Management Provides program management financial support to Group Leaders and project managers as needed. Focus on assisting with initial program planning including all defined deliverables, task-level budgets, and schedules. Support and mentor staff through business and collaboration development activities. Collaborate with the Group Office in development outreach strategies to expand the Group’s impact in technology transfer. Maintain a working knowledge of project management best practices, to assist program managers during program execution. Support and possible lead internal, enterprise level initiatives encompassing people or skill development, process improvements, and system implementation. Human Resources & Personnel Management The Business Manager supports the Group Office and employees in matters related to recruiting and employment. Manage job postings within SuccessFactors, follow through after interviews to prepare offers. Support the group’s performance appraisal, goal setting and salary review processes. Works to develop a high-performing administrative team and writes and delivers annual performance review of administrative staff. Facilities Develop the Group’s long-term office and lab space needs and collaborate with the Division Office, Director’s Office, and Facility Services Department to develop and implement the plan to achieve those needs. This is a component of a long-term strategy with in the Division for new facilities and capabilities. Requirements Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering or Science Master’s degree in Business or related field (MBA preferred) 5–8 years applicable experience beyond degree is required Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Project, Visio, Outlook) Ability to analyze, create and present financial results/reports Demonstrated effective written and oral communication skills, interpersonal skills, and organizational skills Ability to work independently in an asynchronous, decentralized work environment Scientific curiosity and a desire for continued growth and education The ability to obtain and maintain a government security clearance is required Preferred Skills and Experience Experience working in technology, science, academia or government SAP S4 Analysis for Office (Excel and PowerPoint) SuccessFactors Fieldglass Concur Product Lifecycle Management (ARAS Innovator Software) At MIT Lincoln Laboratory, our exceptional career opportunities include many outstanding benefits to help you stay healthy, feel supported, and enjoy a fulfilling work-life balance. Benefits offered to employees include: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans MIT-funded pension Matching 401K Paid leave (including vacation, sick, parental, military, etc.) Tuition reimbursement and continuing education programs Mentorship programs A range of work-life balance options ... and much more! Please visit our Benefits page for more information. As an employee of MIT, you can also take advantage of other voluntary benefits, discounts and perks. Selected candidate will be subject to a pre-employment background investigation and must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret level DoD security clearance. MIT Lincoln Laboratory is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability status, or genetic information; U.S. citizenship is required. Requisition ID: 42003