The Project Manager, Operations Strategy is responsible for leading the execution of complex, cross-functional projects aligned to strategic operations priorities and program objectives. This role operates within larger programs and works closely with Program Managers and senior leadership to deliver initiatives that support footprint optimization, product transfers, cost and margin improvement, automation, and capacity expansion.

This position requires a strong combination of engineering expertise, business acumen, and program execution discipline. The individual is expected to operate with a high degree of independence, managing multiple concurrent projects while navigating ambiguity, competing priorities, and cross-functional dependencies.

The Project Manager translates strategic objectives into actionable project plans, drives execution across functions, and influences decisions at the program level. Success in this role requires the ability to lead technically complex initiatives, resolve multifaceted problems, and ensure alignment across stakeholders in a regulated, quality-driven environment.

This position is onsite in Athens, OH.

Project & Program Execution

• Lead end-to-end execution of complex, cross-functional projects within one or more strategic programs, ensuring delivery against defined scope, timeline, and objectives

• Translate program-level goals into detailed project plans, milestones, and deliverables

• Drive coordination across engineering, operations, quality, regulatory, supply chain, and commercial teams to ensure alignment and execution

• Manage multiple concurrent projects with varying scope and complexity, balancing priorities and resource constraints

Problem Solving & Complexity Management

• Identify, assess, and resolve complex project risks, issues, and interdependencies across multiple functions

• Lead structured problem-solving efforts, including data gathering, trade-off analysis, and scenario evaluation

• Navigate ambiguity by defining clear paths forward in situations where information may be incomplete or evolving

• Escalate critical risks and decisions appropriately while recommending data-driven solutions

Technical Leadership

• Provide technical leadership across projects, ensuring sound engineering and scientific judgment in decision-making

• Lead initiatives involving design transfer, engineering changes, process improvements, and manufacturing optimization

• Guide teams through technical trade-offs, balancing quality, regulatory, operational, and business requirements

• Ensure all project deliverables meet applicable quality standards and regulatory expectations

Stakeholder Communication & Influence

• Communicate effectively with stakeholders across and outside the immediate function, including senior leadership, to ensure transparency and alignment

• Influence program-level decisions through strong analysis, clear recommendations, and cross-functional collaboration

• Build alignment across teams by clarifying priorities, resolving conflicts, and driving accountability

• Support communication with external partners and suppliers as needed

Planning & Operational Alignment

• Support program and annual planning processes by providing project-level inputs on scope, timing, risks, and resource needs

• Monitor and report on project progress, risks, and performance through established governance and reporting mechanisms

• Contribute to improving project management practices, tools, and processes to enhance execution efficiency and consistency

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or scientific discipline (Mechanical, Chemical, Manufacturing Engineering; Chemistry; Microbiology; Biochemistry; etc.).

• 7 years of progressive experience in technical programs, projects, or management within regulated industries (medical device experience preferred).

• Demonstrated ability to lead complex, cross-functional initiatives with multiple stakeholders and dependencies

• Strong problem-solving skills with experience navigating ambiguous and technically complex situations

• Proven ability to influence decisions and drive alignment without direct authority

• Experience supporting capital projects, facility upgrades, or manufacturing scale-up initiatives

• Experience supporting engineering changes, design transfer, new product introduction, or process improvement initiatives

• Financial acumen, including experience managing project budgets and supporting business case development

• Strong communication skills with the ability to engage both technical and non-technical audiences

• Proficiency in project management tools (e.g., Smartsheet, MS Project) and Microsoft Office Suite

• This position is not currently eligible for visa sponsorship.

Preferred:

• Advanced degree (MS, PhD, MBA, or equivalent).

• Familiarity with medical device regulatory requirements and design control processes

• Experience working across global or multi-site organizations

Internal Partners:

Operations, Supply Chain, R&D, Regulatory, BU

External Partners:

Suppliers, external partners supporting project execution

The work environment characteristics are representative of manufacturing, laboratory, or warehouse environment and include handling of viral and bacterial hazards, potentially hazardous chemicals, as well as infectious or potentially infectious bodily fluids, tissues, and samples periods of time.

Up to 75% of the time you will be standing, walking or sitting for extended. Ability to lift to 50 lbs. Flexible work hours to meet project deadlines.

The salary range for this position takes into account a wide range of factors including education, experience, knowledge, skills, geography, and abilities of the candidate, in addition to internal equity and alignment with market data. At QuidelOrtho, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top range for their role and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. The salary range for this position is $106,000 to $125,000 and is bonus eligible. QuidelOrtho offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, along with a 401(k) plan, employee assistance program, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, paid time off (including sick time), and paid Holidays. All benefits are non-contractual, and QuidelOrtho may amend, terminate, or enhance the benefits provided, as it deems appropriate.

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