Operations Director

Description

Lead the Future of Maritime Innovation

Leidos’ Maritime System Solutions (MSS) Portfolio is seeking a visionary Operations Director to lead and elevate our operational excellence across programs and facilities that are redefining the future of maritime technology. From unmanned underwater vehicles to cutting-edge sensor systems, you’ll be at the forefront of innovation—supporting engineering teams that protect and advance U.S. interests around the globe.

This is a unique leadership opportunity for a senior operations professional who thrives in a complex, high-impact environment where collaboration, mission assurance, and technical excellence are paramount.

What You’ll Do:

• Lead and manage day-to-day operational functions including administration, facilities, IT, and coordination with corporate functions like security, mission assurance, and EH&S.
• Serve as a senior in-person advisor to the Portfolio Manager, Engineering Director, and Sub-Portfolio Managers—ensuring seamless integration of operational support.
• Act as Deputy to the Portfolio Manager, providing high-level leadership and strategic oversight.
• Oversee all facility operations, including shop floor activities, site improvements, and safety initiatives.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement across engineering and support teams.
• Identify and support new business opportunities aligned with strategic goals, assisting in planning, capture, and early execution.
• Represent MSS in key customer engagements and executive briefings.

What You Bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Operations Management, or related field from an accredited institution.
• 20+ years of operational management experience within the defense, aerospace, or maritime systems sectors.
• 10+ years leading distributed operational teams with direct reports.
• Proven leadership in facilities oversight, cross-functional team management, and support for classified and high-security environments.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to engage effectively across all organizational levels.
• Deep understanding of government contracting, security protocols, and mission assurance standards.
• US Citizenship with the ability to obtain a TS/SCI clearance.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of ISO 9001:2015 and environmental health & safety in mixed-use facilities (office/high bay environments).
• Experience transitioning products from design to manufacturing.
• Familiarity with ITAR, export control, and U.S. government security regulations.

Why Leidos?

At Leidos, we deliver practical innovation for today and transformative solutions for tomorrow. Join a team where your leadership will shape some of the most advanced maritime systems in the world—and help safeguard what matters most.

Apply now to lead at the intersection of operations and innovation.

SUBSEAMSS

At Leidos, we don’t want someone who "fits the mold"—we want someone who melts it down and builds something better. This is a role for the restless, the over-caffeinated, the ones who ask, “what’s next?” before the dust settles on “what’s now.”

If you’re already scheming step 20 while everyone else is still debating step 2… good. You’ll fit right in.

Original Posting:

Pay Range:

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.