RD&D Process and Operations Lead (Hybrid)
About The Position
The RD&D Process and Operations Lead builds the operational backbone for Research, Design & Development product development teams. The role creates streamlined processes, data structures, technology implementations, and training that help cross-functional teams stay organized, efficient, and aligned. It is a hands-on role supporting better educational products for teachers, children, and families, based in Carson, California, with a hybrid work arrangement and onsite work as required. The lead drives multiple cross-functional operational projects, develops a product development operations center of excellence, supports inspection technology implementation, and builds KPIs and reporting structures for stakeholder decision-making. The role also designs training and communications for internal teams and external vendor partners and facilitates working sessions to resolve issues and maintain progress.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
- 5–8+ years of experience in operations and/or program management within product development organizations specializing in the consumer product industry.
- Experience supporting new product launches and product development initiatives.
- Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including data analysis, reporting, and presentation development.
- Experience with SAP integrations and implementing other technologies.
- Familiarity with Workfront.
- Proven ability to support and navigate organizational change.
- Strong analytical skills and ability to interpret systems and data to drive insights and informed decision-making.
- Ability to work onsite as required in Carson, California.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with Workfront or similar project management platforms.
- Experience with inspection software implementation.
- Experience implementing a variety of software.
- Workfront experience.
- Kaizen knowledge.
Responsibilities
- Own and drive multiple cross-functional operational projects, including project plans, accountability tracking, timelines, and continuous improvement based on results.
- Develop and implement the product development operations center of excellence, including a process optimization roadmap, documented process flows, role clarity, communication accountability, and change management plans.
- Lead the scoping, onboarding, and scaled implementation of inspection technology across cross-functional teams, partnering with the Director to support adoption and efficiency gains.
- Build and maintain data structures, KPIs, and reports that give product development stakeholders visibility for decision-making and risk management.
- Design and deliver training and communications for internal teams and external vendor partners.
- Facilitate working sessions to surface and resolve conflict, clarify expectations, and keep work moving.
Benefits
- Bonus eligible.
- Paid leave for new parents.
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage, including EPO, PPO, and HSA options.
- 401(k) retirement plan with company contribution.
- Flexible benefits.
- On-site preschool for employees’ children.
- On-site employee gym.
- Generous employee discount.
- Casual dress.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
