Deputy Chief Operating Officer

SLAC is operated by Stanford University for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science and is one of 17 DOE national laboratories—the most comprehensive research system of its kind in the world. The laboratory provides strategic scientific and technological capabilities and expertise that cannot be found elsewhere. A major part of the Office of Science mission is supporting the development, construction, and operation of unique, open-access scientific user facilities. SLAC is home to three Office of Science user facilities: the Linac Coherent Light Source, the Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, and the Facility for Advanced Accelerator Experimental Tests. Located on 426 acres of Stanford land two miles from the main university campus, SLAC collaborates closely with Stanford through joint institutes, facilities, and research efforts. Stanford invests in the laboratory and provides key services to enhance operational efficiency, while SLAC contributes deep expertise and large-scale research facilities that benefit the university.

About the Role

Provides strategic support to the Deputy Laboratory Director for Operations and Chief Operating Officer (COO) in leadership, development, and implementation of strategic plans, policies, and operational responsibilities. Partners with programmatic areas of the laboratory to advance world-class operations in support of the scientific mission. Engages stakeholders, defines requirements, and implements laboratory-wide programs. Acts on behalf of the Deputy Laboratory Director and COO in their absence and serves as a delegate for authorized approvals. Provides strategic budget support for the COO’s approval, ensuring efficient and effective delivery of services aligned with the SLAC mission. Supports the development of initiatives and fosters innovation and continuous improvement across the laboratory. Develops and maintains relationships with the Department of Energy, Stanford University, and other stakeholders to formulate crosscutting programs and solutions. Addresses operational issues through multidisciplinary teams and advocates for talent management strategies that advance a diverse and inclusive workforce. Demonstrates SLAC’s core values—Excellence, Integrity, Collaboration, Respect, and Creativity—on a daily basis.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and management of administrative and operational functions, exercising delegated authority for policy and programmatic decisions.
• Achieve goals through managerial staff, including multiple levels of professional and supervisory personnel.
• Oversee the management of assigned areas, directing staff to achieve organizational goals and vision.
• Responsible for hiring, retaining, and developing staff, including career coaching and performance accountability.
• Provide strategic direction for multiple business areas, creating and implementing complex strategic plans and significant programmatic changes.
• Establish policies and make high-level decisions for programs that provide critical support services for the laboratory.
• Oversee allocation of assigned resources and ensure financial viability and success of the organization.
• Evaluate organizational performance and develop improvement plans.
• Advise executive management on programmatic and policy development, negotiating and influencing laboratory leaders on issues with lab-wide impact.
• Champion major initiatives, lead high-visibility process redesign and innovation projects, and implement assigned initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree and ten years of relevant experience in administrative, operational, and financial management, or a combination of education and relevant experience.
• Demonstrated strategic leadership, planning, and change management skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Advanced financial expertise in budget planning and financial forecasting.
• Exceptional interpersonal, negotiation, and political acumen skills.
• Ability to influence, solve problems, troubleshoot, think creatively, and resolve conflicts.
• Expert analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong knowledge of industry standards, trends, and/or regulatory requirements.
• Subject matter expertise in assigned areas of responsibility.
• Strong leadership, management, relationship-building, communication, and strategic planning skills.
• Experience in complex budget analysis, preparation, and stewardship.
• Flexibility, adaptability, and the ability to independently carry out delegated authority with minimal instruction.
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic work setting, leveraging skills in team building, time management, resource management, and cost management.
• Demonstrated ability to lead through influence and deliver measurable results (e.g., increased awareness, higher customer satisfaction, increased engagement).
• Successful project management experience handling substantial, cross-functional, and mission-critical projects.
• Knowledge of typical laboratory operations functions such as safety, security, facilities, human resources, business systems, and contractor assurance.
• Ability to lead and manage laboratory operations projects and initiatives.
• Ability to balance and provide guidance on DOE regulatory and policy requirements while mitigating institutional risk and supporting the lab’s scientific mission.
• Knowledge of the DOE national laboratory environment and the Department of Energy is highly preferred.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced formal education at the master’s level or above and a minimum of 15 years of working experience.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DOE Q-level clearance.

Skills

• Results Through Others: Achieves expected results by effectively delegating and managing the work of others.
• Aligns Priorities: Ensures planning and prioritization of resources and work efforts; aligns direct and matrix reports to support organizational goals.
• Applies Lab Acumen: Maintains understanding of lab efforts and direction, current research, and trends; contributes informed ideas to lab growth.
• Navigates Complexity: Manages complex information and circumstances, discerning priorities and taking appropriate action in difficult or ambiguous situations.
• Builds Trust: Earns trust and credibility from team members, peers, and stakeholders; demonstrates SLAC values of respect and integrity.
• Relationships: Builds relationships to foster trust, collaboration, and a positive climate; manages conflict and networks effectively.
• Communication: Ensures effective information flow to various audiences; delivers clear and impactful written and verbal communications.
• Self-Awareness: Seeks feedback, takes ownership of development, and adjusts behavior based on impact; pursues continuous learning.
• Team Effectiveness: Motivates team members, fosters a diverse and collaborative environment, and leverages team strengths for overall effectiveness.
• Purpose & Vision: Articulates a clear vision and inspires others to execute work plans with a sense of purpose and ownership for the mission.

Pay

Targeted salary range: $245,000 – $320,000.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of the job.
• This position requires onsite work at SLAC.

Stanford is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.