OPERATIONS MANAGER

Ignite Now; Huntsville (AL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Ignite Now in Huntsville, AL seeks an experienced Operations Manager to oversee complex defense-program operations and ensure delivery of critical support to SMDC. The role requires management leadership, data‑driven processes, and direct support to senior leaders.

The ideal candidate will have a strong defense background with experience in program operations, data strategy implementation, and cross-functional collaboration across technical and non‑technical stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in business, engineering, science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of management experience; a minimum of 15 years supporting Department of War organizations.
• Strong understanding of SMDC mission and defense technologies.
• Excellent verbal and written communication with technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Stakeholder coordination with SMDC personnel, prime contractor, and others to align objectives.
• Develop long-term vision, strategic goals, and business processes for organizational success.
• Oversee day-to-day operations and align with the mission.
• Advise leadership on fiscal operations within Planning, Programming, Budgeting and Execution processes.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Stakeholder management

Communication

Education

Master's degree

Job description

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Job Title

OPERATIONS MANAGER

Location

Category

Manufacturing/Production/Operations

Job Type

Full-Time

Manager

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Security Clearance Required

TS/SCI

Job Description

Igniters operate in the world’s most demanding environment. Igniters are self‑motivated, mission‑driven, and relentless in solving the Warfighters’ hardest problems. We move fast, think differently, and execute with precision to tackle high‑stakes challenges across AI/ML, space and missile defense intelligence, EMSO, advanced analytics, and programmatic domains. As an employee‑owned SDVOSB headquartered in Huntsville, AL, our team delivers mission‑critical impact for the Army, Air Force, Space Force, MDA, NASA, DIA, and FBI.

Ignite exists to outpace the threat and deliver results that matter in the moments that count.

Ignite is currently seeking a highly skilled and motivated Operations Manager to support the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command (SMDC). The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in the defense sector, including understanding of technical and functional support requirements of the SMDC organization. This role involves managing complex projects, providing technical expertise, and ensuring the successful delivery of critical support to meet customer objectives. Provides direct support to SMDC Senior Leaders in the area of program operations, implements overarching data strategy, and conducts special projects as required. Conducts organizational studies and evaluations, design systems and procedures, conduct work‑simplification and measurement studies, and prepare operations and procedures manuals to assist management in operating more efficiently and effectively.

Job Requirements

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Stakeholder Coordination: Collaborate with Senior SMDC personnel, prime contractor, and other stakeholders to align program objectives and deliverables.
• Aid in the development of long‑term vision, strategic goals, and business processes to guide the organization’s success.
• Ensure execution of day‑to‑day operations and their alignment with the organization’s mission.
• Advise leadership on all aspects of fiscal operations ensuring compliance and successful execution within the Planning, Programming, Budgeting and Execution process.

Job Requirements and Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in business, engineering, science, or a related field. Advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of management experience. A minimum of 15 years supporting Department of War organizations.
• Strong understanding of SMDC mission and functions, project management methodologies, and defense technologies related to space and missile defense.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact with technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
• Track team’s performance using appropriate metrics, preparing detailed reports for leadership and stakeholders.
• Identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies to ensure program success.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire multi‑functional teams across multiple locations, fostering a collaborative and high‑performance work environment.
• Ability to foster relationships by successfully supporting Government, prime contractor, and corporate objectives.
• Strong problem‑solving skills, initiative, and attention to detail.

Security Clearance Requirements:

Must possess or be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI security clearance

We are equal opportunity/affirmative action employers, committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under state or local law.

Accommodation Request:

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or are a disabled veteran and are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our Careers sites as a result of your disability, you have the right to receive assistance in completing the application process. Please send your request to [e-mail]