Deputy Chief Operating Officer

About the Role

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, 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.

This position provides support to the Deputy Laboratory Director for Operations and Chief Operating Officer (COO) in the leadership, development, and implementation of strategic plans, policies, and operational responsibilities. You will partner with programmatic areas of the laboratory to advance world-class operations support of the scientific mission, engage stakeholders, define requirements, and implement assigned laboratory-wide programs. Acting on behalf of the Deputy Laboratory Director and COO in their absence, you will provide strategic budget support, develop initiatives, encourage innovation, and maintain relationships with the Department of Energy, Stanford University, and other stakeholders. The role also involves advocating for talent management strategies that advance a diverse and inclusive workforce while upholding SLAC’s core values: Excellence, Integrity, Collaboration, Respect, and Creativity.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and management of administrative and operational functions, exercising delegated authority for policy and programmatic decisions.
• Achieve goals through managerial staff, overseeing multiple levels of professional and supervisory employees, including hiring, retaining, and developing staff.
• Provide strategic direction for multiple areas of business, creating and implementing complex strategic plans and significant programmatic changes.
• Oversee allocation of assigned resources and ensure the financial viability and success of the organization.
• 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 develop and implement initiatives as assigned.
• Support and balance DOE regulatory and policy requirements to mitigate institutional risk while achieving the Lab’s scientific mission.

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, with advanced financial expertise in budget planning and financial forecasting.
• Exceptional interpersonal, negotiation, and political acumen skills, with the ability to influence, solve problems, and resolve conflicts.
• Expert analytical and problem-solving skills, with strong knowledge of industry standards, trends, and/or regulatory requirements.
• Subject matter expertise in area(s) of responsibility, including leadership, management, relationship building, communications, and strategic planning.
• Experience in complex budget analysis, preparation, and stewardship.
• 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 and familiarity with 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.
• 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, demonstrating effective problem-solving and decision-making.
• 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 to achieve team and lab goals.
• 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.
• Team Effectiveness: Motivates team members, fosters a diverse and collaborative environment, and leverages team strengths.
• Purpose & Vision: Articulates a clear vision of expected outcomes and inspires others to execute work plans with a sense of purpose.

Pay

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

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.
• Onsite work is required for this position.
• Must comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including those related to environment, safety, and security.
• Must obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Credential, which includes passing a federal background investigation. The tier of investigation will be determined by job duties and may include a declaration of illegal drug activities (including marijuana, regardless of state laws).
• Foreign national candidates who have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years are not eligible for a PIV credential but may obtain a Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) Federal risk determination. After meeting the three-year residency requirement, a PIV credential will be required.