Operations Director, MFI at Mill 19 - College of Engineering - Manufacturing Futures Institute

Carnegie Mellon University's Manufacturing Futures Institute (MFI) acts as the catalyst at the university to spur groundbreaking research in the digital transformation of manufacturing to accelerate innovation for national economic prosperity. The university has leading expertise in advanced manufacturing technologies, artificial intelligence, integrated design, entrepreneurship, the science of learning and technology policy. By coupling with CMU's unparalleled ability to work problems at disciplinary boundaries, MFI enables CMU to envision and realize the future of manufacturing. Our unique culture of collaboration drives both the convergence of disciplines inside the university and robust partnerships with industry, non-profits and government that are necessary for success.

MFI's headquarters are based in an advanced manufacturing facility at Mill19 in the Hazelwood Green neighborhood of Pittsburgh. The facility boasts 58,000 square feet of space specially designed for manufacturing research and training activities including a 10,000 square foot highbay, R&D labs, a conferencing center, and offices. CMU and the Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing Institute (ARM) are co-located and share space at Mill 19 in a unique partnership. ARM is a not-for-profit Manufacturing USA institute dedicated to advancing robotics and automation technologies to secure national interests and enable US manufacturers to thrive, compete on a global basis, and create new jobs. The partnership of CMU and ARM at Mill 19 enables the combined team to engage in efforts that span from basic and applied research to development projects that de-risk technology solutions for direct transition to industry.

About the Role:

The MFI Mill 19 Operations Director leads and manages the technical staff and facility at Mill 19. The potential and breadth of this position makes it a dynamic opportunityat the university for someone whothrives in an intellectually interesting and challenging work environment that demands the utmost collaborative spirit. This is a staff leadership role for someone with at least 10 years of experience in operations management within a research and development environment, preferably in advanced manufacturing, and with a history of university, industry, and government engagement. The successful candidate has at least 5 years of experience in development of technology-based organizations, including strategic planning, talent recruitment and relationship building with stakeholders from universities, industry and/or government.

The Operations Director must demonstrate strong collaboration skills, serving as the primary liaison between CMU and ARM to coordinate development and operations at Mill 19. This role involves working closely with leadership and staff at ARM to strengthen engagement between the university and ARM. The successful candidate will proactively and efficiently interact with a diverse range of stakeholders, both within and outside CMU. Additionally, they will convene and collaborate with faculty and research staff across departments and colleges to ensure Mill 19 operations align with MFI's strategic objectives and stakeholder needs. Maintaining effective relationships with students, interns, and trainees at Mill 19 is also essential.

The Operations Director will act as CMU's lead technical liaison, in coordination and collaboration with ARM, for the formation of shared infrastructure at Mill 19. Mill 19 houses state-of-the-art advanced manufacturing technologies, such as robotics, 3D printing, sensor networks, and augmented reality suites for research and demonstration projects as well as for use in education and workforce development activities.This position reports to the MFI Faculty Director.

Core Responsibilities:

Mill 19 Operations and Staff Management

• Provides day-to-day leadership and general management of MFI at Mill 19
• Identifies, recommends, and implements plans for the operational infrastructure of systems, processes and personnel designed to accommodate growth objectives.
• Manages Mill 19 research space and other resource requests from faculty.
• Manages internal and external requests for Mill 19 conference rooms and event space.
• Leads Mill 19 space management meetings with ARM; coordinates and achieves consensus on space allocation.
• Defines, implements, and supports the Mill 19 shared technology infrastructure, in coordination with MFI leadership and stakeholders.
• Oversees finance in the areas of accounting, reporting, budgeting, procurement, compliance, and financial planning related to Mill 19 resources to ensure overall outcomes meet stated goals, objectives, and budgetary constraints.
• As needed, interacts with CMU and College of Engineering (COE) human resources, business and contract offices, legal affairs, and risk management teams to drive progress, and solve issues.
• Attracts, recruits, and retains an exceptional, qualified team, including, when appropriate, leading hiring processes as dictated by MFI and Mill 19 staffing needs.
• Leads by example and develops a team environment that fosters collaboration, excellence, results, and innovative practices, building a culture of trust and openness.
• Provides mentoring and effective leadership to the team;
• Supports ongoing professional development of staff and provides ongoing training.
• Addresses employee issues and concerns with tact, diplomacy and adherence to University policies and procedures

Collaborative Engagement with MFI Stakeholders

• Works with the MFI Faculty Director and the leadership team on overall planning of advanced manufacturing strategies, particularly related to Mill 19
• Works with MFI leadership team to ensure MFI achieves multi-year financial sustainability.
• Collaborates with other senior positions to help develop, implement, and refine operational plans and short and long-range initiatives and goals.
• Provides delivery, oversight and accountability for high performing operational services and capacity building required to support the current scale and future expansion goals.
• Ensures that the MFI leadership team, advisory committee(s) and staff have accurate and timely information to deliberate and coordinate resource and operational decisions.
• As appropriate, oversees MFI technical staff execution of projects and programs that comply with agreed upon terms, meet deadlines, come in on budget and generate sustainable solutions.
• Represents the university, COE and MFI in a manner that builds a highly positive reputation in the community and increases our visibility both locally and nationally.
• Establishes positive working relationships with partners and decision makers in the public, private, academic, and philanthropic sectors.
• Assists in development, organization and coordination of MFI events, workshops, and seminars when held at Mill 19
• Provide program content when appropriate to COE marketing and communications department to reach a variety of constituents.
• Prepares content and makes presentations describing and promoting MFI and Mill 19
• Prepares materials and participates in internal and external advisory boards and councils.
• Assists, where appropriate, in commercializing the results MFI's research which may include intelligently presenting complex research, and data to potential and current partners in a manner that garners interest, support, and excitement about the program, our mission and vision, and our accomplishments.
• Works with stakeholders, including ARM, in interfacing with CMU technical staff, when appropriate
• Assists as part of the MFI team to interface with the Hazelwood Green community, particularly with respect to Mill 19 activities.

Inclusion and cultural sensitivity are valued competencies at CMU. Therefore, we are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of diverse audiences. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

You should demonstrate:

• Knowledgeable and understanding of current trends in advanced manufacturing.
• Excellent at building and maintaining relationships both within the organization and externally.
• Superior at project management and time management
• Self-motivated with a positive and professional approach to management
• Confident and engaging communicator
• Able to lead in cooperation with high-level management.
• Comfortable synthesizing work plans and strategies for success

Qualifications:

• Advanced degree in a technical field related to advanced manufacturing.
• 10+ years of experience in operations management within a research and development environment, preferably in advanced manufacturing
• 5+ years of experience in development of technology-based organizations, including strategic planning, talent recruitment and relationship building with stakeholders from universities, industry and/or government.
• Demonstrable experience in leading engagement with a mix of academic, industry and government stakeholders
• A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Requirements:

• Successful background check

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits available to eligible employees.

Those employees who are benefits eligible have the opportunity to experience the full spectrum of advantages from comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance to an enticing retirement savings program offering a generous employer contribution. You can also unlock your potential with tuition benefits and take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays. Finally, rest easy knowing you are covered by life and accidental death and disability insurance.

Other perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and so much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits that may beawaiting you, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond just credentials, we consider the role and responsibilities, your invaluable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We acknowledge and appreciate your unique skills and the diverse perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it's about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

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