Business Manager - Optical Engineering Group

MIT Lincoln Laboratory•Lexington, MA

10d•$98,400 - $130,200•Onsite

About The Position

MIT Lincoln Laboratory's Optical Engineering Group (Group 78) develops and prototypes novel, one-of-a-kind optical systems for critical national security and scientific advancement missions. The group has a history of developing innovative optical solutions for satellite imaging, laser communications, airborne imaging, and high energy laser systems. The group consists of over 30 professionals with diverse expertise. Group 78 is seeking an experienced Business Manager to join its dynamic group office, handling financial, administrative, and operational responsibilities. The ideal candidate will be team-oriented, possess strong communication skills, and be adaptable to change. This role requires a high level of professionalism, discretion with sensitive information, and situational awareness. The Business Manager will manage one Group Admin and report to the Division Business Manager. This position is primarily onsite in Lexington, MA.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering or Science
5-8 years applicable experience beyond degree
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, Word, Project, Visio)
Ability to analyze, create and present financial results/reports
Demonstrated effective written and oral communication skills, interpersonal skills, and organizational skills.
Ability to obtain and maintain a government security clearance is required.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Business or related field preferred, MBA highly preferred
Experience working in the fields of technology, science, academia or government
Experience with any combination of the following tools or systems: Analysis for Office (Excel and PowerPoint), MS Power BI, SharePoint, MS Forms, SuccessFactors, Field Glass, Concur

Responsibilities

Manage one Group Admin and report to the Division Business Manager.
Manage all aspects of the Group’s administrative and business functions in operations management.
Partner with the Group Office to ensure smooth and efficient operations.
Manage financial responsibilities including cost estimation, proposal preparation, new program package submissions, program funding updates, authorization of budget expenditures, and status of financial health.
Ensure the Group’s administrative needs are met, including procurements, property, IT compliance, office and laboratory space planning, and labor allocation tracking and reporting.
Perform data analysis and ad hoc reporting to guide decision making.
Develop new program packages including initial cost estimates and funding profiles, ensuring consistency between documentation.
Understand nuances between on contract and off contract programs, and sponsor-specific requirements.
Create program/task level cost estimates and track budget to actuals.
Analyze trends and discrepancies from plan, track milestones and risk assessments.
Collaborate with Group Leaders to implement and manage resource planning.
Track time allocation compared to each program’s spend plan.
Manage program level financial reporting provided to sponsors and program managers.
Manage and report on the group’s annual operational budget and long-term investment strategies.
Serve as the primary point of contact for all group procurements and actively track critical and long lead-time procurements.
Guide technical staff through the procurement process.
Manage the procurement of consultant services and subcontractor labor.
Provide program management financial support to Group Leaders and project managers.
Assist with initial program planning including deliverables, task-level budgets, and schedules.
Maintain a working knowledge of project management best practices.
Support the Group Office and employees in matters related to recruiting and employment.
Manage job postings within Success Factors and prepare offers.
Help manage the group’s performance appraisal, goal setting, and salary review processes.
Develop a high-performing administrative team and conduct annual performance reviews of administrative staff.
Develop the Group’s long-term office and lab space needs and collaborate with relevant departments to implement the plan.