Business and Operations Specialist

Description

Are you passionate about being an integral part of a thriving research and development organization?

Do you love creating engaging experiences for sponsors, collaborators, and current and future APL employees?

Do you thrive in a fast-paced work environment that strives to increase the efficiency and impact of the organization?

If so, we 're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.

We are seeking a Branch Business and Operations Specialist to support the Concept Design and Realization (RK) Branch in the Research and Exploratory Development Department (REDD). Directly supporting and partnering with the Branch Supervisor, you will be the primary POC for Branch business and operational needs. You will develop an understanding of the technical work being performed by the groups within the Branch and be able to convey the methodology, impact, and importance to others. In REDD, we aim to foster a highly collaborative, fulfilling, and even fun environment.

As a Branch Operations Specialist you will...

• Partner with branch leadership and the REDD central finance team to enhance forecasting, workforce and resource planning, and capacity assessments to align capabilities with current and emerging needs.
• Coordinate industry-sponsored and government BAA opportunities, supporting opportunity identification and tracking, proposal development and submission, and ongoing project management activities.
• Engage with stakeholders across APL to assess and pursue new contracting mechanisms and improve business processes that expand opportunities for branch engagement.
• Work closely with Mission Area business teams to increase awareness of in-house capabilities and integrate branch expertise into sponsor engagements, proposal development, and emerging sponsor opportunities.
• Work in conjunction with the Branch Supervisor to identify operational tasks and priorities. Establish and maintain the rhythm of business and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to improve consistency, efficiency, accountability, and execution.
• Support the development and execution of branch strategy, including strategic planning activities, technical content curation, editorial review, and preparation of reports, newsletters, presentations, and other communications that articulate branch priorities and impact.
• Partner with the Communications Department to develop and execute an integrated engagement and communications strategy that elevates awareness of branch capabilities and connects mission areas across APL with expertise to develop novel concepts, advance prototyping, and inspire sponsors.
• Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of high-impact branch engagements, including enterprise-wide initiatives, external partnerships, sponsor visits, and internal events. Oversee end-to-end event operations, including scheduling, communications, space planning, tours, demonstrations, and overall visitor experience. Assist in developing and refining briefing content, presentations, and supporting materials to effectively communicate branch capabilities and impact.
• Strengthen branch culture through the development and execution of staff engagement, recognition, and employee experience initiatives that foster collaboration, reinforce shared priorities, and build a connected, high-performing team.
• Serve as an integral member of the broader operations team, supporting special projects and ensuring operational continuity during staff absences and periods of increased demand.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

• Possess a BS Degree in a business-related field. Relevant professional level experience may be substituted.
• Have at least 5+ years of demonstrated experience in project management, logistics, and operational coordination with demonstrated proficiency in overseeing projects.
• Have experience with business forecasting, contracts, subcontract management and/or developing proposals.
• Possess excellent communication skills with the ability to synthesize and distill sophisticated technical concepts for broader audiences. Possess exceptional writing and presentation skills.
• Have strong organizational skills, significant experience with MS Office, to include Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, and the ability to build compelling briefings.
• Have a positive attitude, and innovative mindset, and the ability to work well both independently and on teams.
• Thrive in a dynamic environment, excel at prioritizing numerous concurrent tasks, and are willing and able to work occasional extended hours or travel as needed.
• Are able to obtain a Secret level security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

• Are knowledgeable and experienced with APL business systems and processes.
• Have a thorough understanding of Government organizations, programs, and contracts.
• Have technical or engineering background or experience.
• Have a working knowledge of AI to accelerate/automate workflows.

About Us

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL’s good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Minimum Rate

$62,900 Annually

Maximum Rate

$180,300 Annually