AI-Bio Research Operations Lead

RAND; Washington (District of Columbia); Hybrid; USD 76,000 - 174,000; Full time

Job summary

RAND Center on AI, Security, and Technology (CAST) seeks an Operations Manager to support the Center’s operations. You will play a vital connective role across the organization, enabling research teams to thrive and shaping the CAST experience at RAND.

In this high-ownership role, you will partner with operations leadership to develop and execute center-wide processes, oversee procurement, finance, events, and office operations, and manage multiple priorities with tact and efficiency.

Qualifications

• Minimum 4+ years of experience in project management or operations.
• MBA/MPP may count for 2 years of experience.
• Experience in procurement management, finance support, and events management.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills, with the ability to multitask, prioritize independently, and perform under pressure.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Collaborative team player who demonstrates tact, courtesy, and professionalism at all levels of an organization.
• Operational management capabilities and strong problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work with large and diverse teams including both junior and senior members.
• Exceptional reliability and attention to detail in demanding environments.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver solutions quickly.
• Demonstrated ability to navigate complex organizational structures.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to engage effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Close partnership with operations leadership on center-wide operations initiatives.
• The development, refinement and execution of center-wide processes.
• Ongoing ownership and management of time-sensitive processes across functional areas, including the management of procurement, systems and office operations, finance, and events.
• Handling of diverse tasks directly supporting the ops team delivering on top priorities for the center within tight timelines.

Skills

Project management

Operations management

Procurement management

Finance support

Events management

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Written and verbal communication

Stakeholder engagement

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree

PMP certification accepted

Master’s degree credit

Tools

Job description

RAND Center on AI, Security, and Technology (CAST) seeks an Operations Manager to support the Center’s operations. You will play a vital connective role across the organization, enabling research teams to thrive and shaping the CAST experience at RAND.

In this high-ownership role, you will partner with operations leadership to develop and execute center-wide processes, oversee procurement, finance, events, and office operations, and manage multiple priorities with tact and efficiency.