AI/Bio Research Project Manager, Operations (Term)

Operations ManagerRAND Center on AI, Security, and Technology (CAST) is seeking an Operations Manager to support the Center's people operations and management of the CAST Operations team. This is a high-ownership role on a fast-moving team supporting one of RAND's highest-priority research centers.In this position, you will play a vital connective role across the organization. You'll be an integral part of our operations team, enable our research teams to do their best work, and shape the experience of working at RAND CAST. This role blends hands-on operational execution with people-leadership and project-management responsibilities.If you are someone who takes pride in making complex systems feel effortless, loves building environments where people thrive, and finds deep satisfaction in high impact work, this role is designed for you.ResponsibilitiesManage Center people support processes ensuring all new hires and exiting team members have a seamless, high-quality experienceManage team members on fellowships, IPAs, and other deploymentsLead project management for internal team and RAND performance review cyclesProvide exceptional high-level project management on cross-center initiativesOversee the management of at least one satellite officeServe as team lead for junior operations staff, providing mentorship, prioritization support, and day-to-day guidanceIdentify and implement improvements to operational processes and systemsPartner with the Senior Operations Leads on sensitive and confidential matters, exercising strong discretion and judgmentProvide operations support across finance, procurement, events, communications, and cross-functional coordinationBuild and maintain strong working relationships across research teams, central RAND functions, and external partnersTake on additional responsibilities as the Center's needs evolveQualificationsExperience managing teams of at least 2-3 people.Strong organizational skills and attention to detail; able to manage multiple time-sensitive processes simultaneously.Experience navigating complex institutional structures and cross-functional partnerships.Exceptionally clear and diplomatic communicator who maintains professionalism in all workplace interactions.Ability to maintain composure and sound judgment under competing deadlines.Background in AI security, national security, or biosecurity.Self-directed and proactive in identifying process improvements.Education RequirementsMinimum: Bachelor's degree; Master's degree preferred. A Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification can substitute for a Bachelor's degree.Experience8 years minimum experience; 10 years preferred.Security ClearanceAbility to obtain and maintain a U.S. government clearance is preferred but not required.TermThis position is a 3-year term appointment with a possibility of renewal, alongside options for longer term employment. We are seeking full-time , DC (preferred); Santa Monica, CA; Pittsburgh, PA; or Boston, MA. Hybrid work arrangement, combining work from home and on-site options in these Range: $102,800 - $174,400RAND considers a variety of factors when formulating an offer, including but not limited to, the specific role and associated responsibilities; a candidate's work experience, education/training, skills, expertise; and internal equity. Successful candidates will be offered employment in a specific title, as determined by the candidate's education and experience. The salary range includes base pay plus RAND's sabbatic pay (which provides additional compensation above base pay when vacation is taken). In addition, RAND provides strong benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, paid time-off and more.Equal Opportunity Employer