Senior Shipyard Operations Executive

General Dynamics - Bath Iron Works; Bath (ME); On-site; USD 235,000 - 275,000; Full time

Job summary

General Dynamics – Bath Iron Works is seeking a Senior Director of Operations to oversee major shipyard functions affecting the construction, testing, and delivery of Navy vessels. The role reports to the VP of Operations and focuses on safety, quality, schedule, and workforce development.

Responsibilities span strategic leadership, enterprise performance, and cross-functional collaboration. A bachelor’s degree (engineering/technical) and 15+ years of leadership in shipbuilding or heavy industry

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in manufacturing, engineering, marine engineering, industrial operations, or related technical field.
• MBA or similar advanced degree strongly preferred.
• Eligibility for U.S. government security clearance; US citizenship required; interim clearance within 45 days of hire.

Responsibilities

• Shape and execute long-range operational strategies aligned with BIW’s goals and modernization roadmap.
• Lead major operational departments with cohesive planning and performance accountability.
• Champion a strong safety culture and implement enterprise safety goals.
• Oversee construction, testing, and production execution across broad areas of responsibility.
• Manage schedule integrity, cost performance, and quality compliance; implement recovery plans.
• Coordinate with Engineering, Planning, Quality, Supply Chain, and Manufacturing Support to ensure readiness.
• Lead Superintendents, Managers, and cross-functional teams with development planning.
• Drive organizational leadership through coaching and mentoring.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Safety leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in manufacturing, engineering, marine engineering, industrial operations, or related technical field

MBA or similar advanced degree

Job description

General Dynamics – Bath Iron Works is seeking a Senior Director of Operations to oversee major shipyard functions affecting the construction, testing, and delivery of Navy vessels. The role reports to the VP of Operations and focuses on safety, quality, schedule, and workforce development.

Responsibilities span strategic leadership, enterprise performance, and cross-functional collaboration. A bachelor’s degree (engineering/technical) and 15+ years of leadership in shipbuilding or heavy industry