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:

 

1. Financial Excellence: cost estimating, budget analysis, spend plan management, business application expertise and financial reporting on program, group health
2. 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
3. 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
4. Initiative and Leadership: self-motivation, independence, critical thinking, continuing education, and promoting efficiency
5. Project Management: proposal preparation, understand goals and objectives, schedule and cost performance, and leadershi