Job DescriptionThe Chief Test Director provides senior-level leadership to all Test Directors supporting Submarine Repair and Overhaul, DSS/SOC Platforms, DDS, Ship-to-Shop, New Construction Components, and specialized system test programs. This position is accountable for workforce planning, personnel management, performance development, and ensuring that testing is executed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with company, customer, and Navy requirements. The role requires strong managerial judgment, communication skills, and the ability to coordinate technical teams across diverse and often remote project sites. Travel may be required.
Responsibilities- Lead, mentor, and manage the full testing workforce, including Test Directors, senior-level personnel, and supporting staff.
- Develop annual performance evaluations, conduct routine feedback sessions, and ensure consistent application of performance standards.
- Create and manage staffing plans to support both local and offsite project requirements, always ensuring appropriate manning levels.
- Make staffing assignments for Test Directors across multiple projects, including travel-intensive offsite work.
- Oversee recruiting efforts: interviewing, selecting, hiring, and onboarding new Test Directors.
- Develop and maintain succession plans, identify high-potential employees, and prepare staff for promotional opportunities.
- Promote a culture of accountability, safety, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Training, Coaching, and Professional Development- Provide coaching and day-to-day guidance to Test Directors, ensuring they have the knowledge, tools, and support to succeed.
- Oversee training plans to maintain required certifications, compliance knowledge, and professional development standards.
- Coordinate with Learning & Development to ensure Test Directors receive leadership and technical growth opportunities.
- Ensure adherence to company expectations regarding quality, documentation, and communication.
Operational Oversight- Provide strategic oversight of testing operations, ensuring alignment with organizational priorities.
- Coordinate with engineering, planning, production, and project management teams to ensure sufficient test support for all phases of project execution.
- Review overall test execution performance (schedule, resource usage, and quality of output) and implement improvements where needed.
- Lead or participate in senior-level project meetings, representing the Test Director function.
- Support resolution of high-visibility or complex testing issues by coordinating resources and expertise.
- Ensure consistent interpretation and application of procedural, safety, and organizational requirements.
- Identify, procure, and implement system to maintain required testing equipment in support of current and future project needs.
Strategic Planning & Process Improvement- Develop and maintain division-level test management processes, performance measures, and organizational standards.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives across test planning, staffing models, and documentation practices.
- Contribute to long-range planning efforts, including budgeting for personnel, equipment, and training.
- Provide senior-level perspective on testing logistics, risks, and capability gaps.
Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in a mechanical or electrical discipline from an accredited college or university; or
- Associate's degree in a mechanical or electrical discipline from an accredited college or university combined with four (4) years of experience with Submarine structural, mechanical and/or electrical system repair/installations; or
- In lieu of a degree, you must have all of the following:
- Shipyard Apprenticeship Diploma; or Operational submarine experience
- Minimum fifteen (15) years of supervisory experience in Submarine/Shipboard structural, mechanical and/or electrical system repair/installations or qualified Submarines;
- Minimum Ten (10) years of experience performing Submarine structural, mechanical and/or electrical system repair/installations; and/or
- Minimum Eight (8) years of technical experience with and knowledge of Dry Deck Shelters (DDS) HM&E maintenance.
- Substantial supervisory or managerial experience, ideally supporting technical or shipyard operations.
- Strong understanding of Navy systems, testing practices, and quality requirements (SUBSAFE, SOC, DDS, etc.).
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret Security Clearance.
- U.S. Citizenship required.
Desired- Background in government or commercial contracting.
- Prior leadership of large technical teams or multi-project organizations.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities- Strong leadership and personnel management capabilities.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to manage multiple teams and projects simultaneously.
- Strong organizational and analytical skills.
- Ability to exercise sound managerial judgment in complex operational environments.
- Strong computer proficiency (Microsoft Office; PeopleSoft experience is a plus).
Pay Transparency:We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package. Employee benefits vary by role, however, may include Health and Wellness, Mental Health, Retirement Savings, Life and Disability, Paid Maternity and Parental Leave, Paid Time Off, Tuition Reimbursement, and an Employee Assistance Program.
Compensation: $130,000-$172,000
About the TeamOceaneering Marine Services Division (MSD) has over 30 years of experience providing full-service submarine and surface ship repairs supporting maintenance and alterations aboard commercial and U.S. military vessels. We are SUBSAFE and DDS-SOC certified and perform high-consequence maintenance on assets that operate in demanding environments.
