DeepTech Operations Associate

Job Summary

Job Description

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently searching for a DeepTech Operations Associate to join our team. This position is a regular, full-time, onsite position and is eligible for full benefits. The DeepTech Operations Associate is responsible for supporting both the daily and long-term operations of all DeepTech activities within the David Center.

Reporting directly to the DeepTech Director, the Operations Associate assists in overseeing David Center staff and ensures consistent on-site support for resident DeepTech projects and programs. This role coordinates incidental space use, serves as the primary host for tours, guests, and visitors, and acts as the main point of contact for on-site project and outreach activities. The Operations Associate supports operational spending related to the David Center in partnership with DeepTech administrative staff. Additionally, the role provides assistance to DunkWorks users, promoting safe and cooperative practices and offering occasional equipment support. 

Essential Functions & Duties 

• Lead and oversee the lifecycle, progress, and operational alignment of DeepTech’s resident projects and programs within the David Center.

• Own and manage intake, prioritization, and end-to-end workflows for nonresident use of David Center resources, ensuring efficient, equitable, and policy-aligned access.

• Provide day-to-day functional leadership to DeepTech staff assigned to the David Center, including work coordination, task prioritization, and operational guidance.

• Operationalize and enforce DeepTech policies and procedures as established by the DeepTech Director, serving as a point of accountability for consistent implementation.

• Act as the primary operational liaison with Facilities, Research Operations, IS, Shipping & Receiving/Distribution, and other WHOI units to ensure continuity of services and optimal facility performance.

• Ensure compliance and risk awareness across safety, equipment usage, security, intellectual property, and other operational domains, escalating issues and recommending mitigations as appropriate.

• Manage delegated budgetary responsibilities, including spending oversight, procurement coordination, and expense tracking in alignment with DeepTech financial controls.

• Own data collection, reporting, and analysis to support DeepTech operational metrics, performance tracking, and strategic decision-making.

• Lead the planning and execution of DeepTech’s formal programs in the David Center, including Lunch & Learns, Tech Talks, Open Houses, and additional events as needed.

• Drive continuous improvement, proactively evaluating existing protocols and proposing, piloting, and implementing enhancements to streamline operations and elevate user experience.

• Serve as DeepTech’s creative and engagement lead, developing and executing innovative strategies to activate the David Center community across physical and digital platforms.

• Partner strategically with WHOI Advancement to support outreach, storytelling, and donor engagement initiatives connected to DeepTech activities.

• Collaborate with the Academic Programs Office (APO) to integrate DeepTech into WHOI educational initiatives and experiential learning opportunities. Create and manage programs for engagement with school groups, both local and abroad 

• Lead outreach and informal engagement activities within the David Center, including facility tours, community events, and oversight of Social Hub and conference room utilization. Oversee and manage the department’s digital narrative by leading website content strategy and user engagement.

• Perform other duties in support of DeepTech and David Center operations, as assigned, consistent with the scope and seniority of the role.

Required Qualifications 

• B.S. or B.A. degree in a relevant field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• 5+ years of progressively responsible experience in program leadership, operations management, or project management.

• Demonstrated ability to lead complex workflows, set priorities, and manage competing demands with minimal oversight.

• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence, collaborate, and lead across diverse stakeholder groups.

• Proven ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and make operational decisions in a fast-paced environment.

• Experience owning administ