AI & Bio Research Operations Lead

RAND Corporation; Washington (District of Columbia); Hybrid; USD 103,000 - 174,000; Full time

Job summary

RAND Center on AI, Security, and Technology (CAST) seeks an Operations Manager to spearhead people operations and CAST Operations team management. The role blends hands-on execution with people leadership and project management, supporting one of RAND's priority research centers.

You will connect across the organization, enable researchers, and help craft an environment where teams thrive. Hybrid work in multiple locations is offered.

Qualifications

• Experience managing teams of at least 2-3 people.
• Strong organizational skills; able to manage multiple time-sensitive processes.
• Experience navigating complex institutional structures and cross-functional partnerships.
• Clear, diplomatic communicator with professionalism under deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Manage Center people support processes for new hires and exits.
• Oversee deployments of fellows and IPAs.
• Lead project management for internal teams and RAND performance reviews.
• Provide high-level project management on cross-center initiatives.
• Oversee at least one satellite office and related operations.

Skills

Team management

Project coordination

Cross-functional collaboration

Diplomatic communication

Discretion under deadlines

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree preferred

PMP Certification may substitute

Job description

RAND Center on AI, Security, and Technology (CAST) seeks an Operations Manager to spearhead people operations and CAST Operations team management. The role blends hands-on execution with people leadership and project management, supporting one of RAND's priority research centers.

You will connect across the organization, enable researchers, and help craft an environment where teams thrive. Hybrid work in multiple locations is offered.