Northrop Grumman

Director of Business Operations 1

Northrop Grumman • $176K — $305K *
Business Services
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Engineering, or related field.
  • 10+ years of progressive experience in operations, program management, or similar roles.
  • 3–5+ years in a leadership role managing teams and budgets.
  • Demonstrated success in driving process improvement and operational efficiency.
  • Strong financial acumen with experience in budgeting and forecasting.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute operational strategies supporting organizational objectives.
  • Translate strategic goals into actionable operational plans with clear metrics and timelines.
  • Analyze processes, identify bottlenecks, and implement productivity improvements.
  • Establish and maintain standard operating procedures across departments.
  • Lead and mentor the operations management team, setting performance expectations and creating development plans.
  • Develop and manage operational budgets, ensuring alignment with financial forecasts.
  • Define and track KPIs to measure and report on operational performance.

Benefits

  • Relocation assistance may be available.
  • Employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and bonuses.
  • Health insurance coverage and life/disability insurance provided.
  • Company-paid holidays and paid time off for personal and vacation needs.
Full Job Description
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available

CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes

CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret

TRAVEL: Yes, 25% of the TimeDescription

The Director of Business Operations 1 is responsible for overseeing day to day business operations, driving operational excellence, and ensuring that people, processes, and systems are aligned to achieve organizational goals. This role leads cross functional teams, optimizes workflows, manages budgets and resources, and implements continuous improvement initiatives to improve quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.


This position can be based out of Roy, UT; Huntsville, AL; Northridge, CA; McLean, VA; Linthicum, MD; Plymouth, MN; or Palm Beach Gardens, FL.


Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership & Strategy

• Develop and execute operational strategies that support the organization’s short  and long term objectives.

• Translate strategic goals into operational plans with clear priorities, metrics, and timelines.

• Monitor operational performance and recommend adjustments to meet or exceed targets.

Process Improvement & Efficiency

• Analyze existing processes, identify bottlenecks, and implement improvements to increase productivity and reduce cost.

• Establish and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) and best practices across departments.

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma) to drive operational excellence.

People Management & Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and develop managers and staff within the operations function.

• Set performance expectations, conduct regular reviews, and create development plans.

• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and high performance.

Financial & Resource Management

• Develop and manage operational budgets; monitor expenses against plan, to include NCTA and department budgets.

• Optimize allocation of resources (people, tools, vendors) to maximize ROI.

• Partner with Finance to forecast operational needs and support planning cycles.

Cross Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with departments such as Business management, HR, Engineering, and Supply Chain to secure required resources for Future Concepts programs.

• Serve as a key point of contact between executive leadership and operational teams.

• Lead and/or support cross functional projects and initiatives.

Data & Performance Management

• Define and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure operational effectiveness.

• Prepare and present regular operational reports and insights to senior leadership.


Basic Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Engineering, or related field required.

Experience

• 10+ years of progressive experience in operations, program management, or related roles.

• 3–5+ years in a leadership position managing teams and budgets.

• Demonstrated success in driving process improvement and operational efficiency.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and people management skills.

• Excellent analytical, problem solving, and decision making abilities.

• Proven ability to design and optimize processes and systems.

• Strong financial acumen and experience with budgeting, forecasting and financial tracking of programs

• Effective communicator with the ability to influence at all levels of the organization.

• High level of organization, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities.

• Proficiency with productivity and data tools (e.g., Excel, dashboards, ERP/CRM systems).

• Ability to travel up to 25%.

• Current U.S. Secret clearance, with ability obtain and maintain a Top Secret clearance.


Preferred Qualifications

Education

• Master’s degree (MBA or related).

Experience

• Experience in industry, e.g., manufacturing, professional services, technology, aerospace/defense.

• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. TS/SCI clearance.


Primary Level Salary Range: $176,100.00 - $305,900.00

The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.

Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.

The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.

About Northrop Grumman

Northrop Grumman is a security company that provides systems, products, and solutions in aerospace, electronics, information systems, shipbuilding, and technical services to government and commercial customers. They design, develop, and build everything from aircraft and spacecraft to cyber security systems. The company is involved in a wide range of defense and technology projects, including the development of aircraft, space systems, cybersecurity solutions, and advanced electronics.

Northrop Grumman Careers

Join the elite team at Northrop Grumman, a leading global security company providing innovative systems, products, and solutions in autonomous systems, cyber, C4ISR, space, strike, and logistics and modernization to customers worldwide. There has never been a more exciting time to advance your career with Northrop Grumman.

Work You’ll Do

At Northrop Grumman, your work will redefine the edges of technology and create a safer future. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity, and bringing your whole self to work. Our team is at the forefront of innovation, collaborating to make the impossible, possible.

Explore Job Opportunities and Growth

Whether you’re looking for an internship, an entry-level position, or a spot for seasoned professionals, Northrop Grumman offers a variety of career paths that encourage growth and development. Explore job opportunities that elevate your skills, and push your career to the next level.

Join Our Diverse and Inclusive Team

Diversity and inclusion are the foundations of our culture. Northrop Grumman is committed to building a diverse team that fosters an inclusive environment, where every team member is valued for their unique perspectives and contributions. We believe that diversity fuels innovation.

Professional Development and Benefits

Northrop Grumman is dedicated to your professional and personal growth. We offer unparalleled benefits, including comprehensive health coverage, generous time off, and family care resources. Additionally, we provide extensive leadership and diversity training to help you craft your career path.

Networking and Leadership

Enhance your career through our robust networking opportunities. Connect with leaders and peers within Northrop Grumman through various events, mentorship programs, and professional groups. Our leadership is deeply invested in nurturing talent and guiding team members through their career journey.

Innovation in Technology

Drive technological breakthroughs with a company at the cutting edge of innovation. Northrop Grumman is a place where you can work on projects that push the boundaries of what is possible.

How to Apply

Ready to join our team? Check out the open positions on our Careers page. Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant skills and experiences. Prepare for your interview with us by researching our projects and understanding our company’s mission and values.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest news, job openings, and insider tips by subscribing to our careers blog. Personalize your experience by joining our community and setting up job alert emails tailored to your career preferences.

Northrop Grumman Jobs

Discover the impact you can make with a career at Northrop Grumman. We are actively hiring and looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players. Search Northrop Grumman jobs today and find where your expertise is needed most. Join Northrop Grumman, and be part of a team that is dedicated to making a difference, not only within the company but in the world at large. Your journey to building a rewarding career starts here.
Learn more about Northrop Grumman
Size
88,000 employees
Market Cap
$82.7 billion
Industry
Net Income
$3.1 billion
Founded
1939
5 Year Trend
+7.6%
Revenue
$36.7 billion
NASDAQ

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Northrop Grumman

More Business Services Jobs

Find similar Director of Business Operations 1 jobs: