Director of Operations

Primary Function:

Long Wave Inc. is seeking a Director of Operations to lead the Simulation Technologies (SIMTEC) Business Unit, delivering mission-critical modeling, simulation, training, and engineering solutions in support of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) customers.

This executive-level leader will be responsible for end-to-end operational performance, including program execution, engineering integration, training delivery, and business growth. The role oversees a portfolio of simulation and training systems that enable mission readiness, operational analysis, and systems validation across complex defense environments.

The Director will ensure execution excellence across capabilities including modeling & simulation, mission systems engineering, training systems development, platform integration, and software modernization.

Essential Responsibilities:

Operational Leadership & Execution

• Lead all aspects of SIM TEC business unit operations, ensuring successful execution of programs supporting DoD customers.
• Drive on-time, on-budget, and compliant delivery across simulation, training, and engineering programs.
• Establish and monitor KPIs, program performance metrics, and operational dashboards.
• Ensure alignment with DoD acquisition frameworks, contract requirements, and quality standards.

Program & Portfolio Management

• Oversee a portfolio of modeling & simulation, training systems, and mission engineering programs.
• Partner with Program Managers to manage cost, schedule, technical performance, and risk.
• Ensure effective integration of simulation systems such as training environments, communication emulators, and system test platforms.

Engineering & Technical Integration

• Provide leadership across systems engineering, simulation development, and software modernization efforts.
• Ensure technical solutions support mission requirements including scenario modeling, operational analysis, and system interoperability.
• Promote adoption of modern engineering practices (e.g., MBSE, Agile, DevSecOps where applicable).

Training & Simulation Delivery

• Oversee development and delivery of advanced training systems, including instructor-led, virtual, and simulation-based training.
• Ensure training programs align with mission readiness objectives and leverage industry frameworks (e.g., ISD, PADDIE).

Business Growth & Strategy

• Partner with Business Development and Capture teams to expand SIM TEC capabilities and win new business.
• Shape strategic direction for simulation technologies, training systems, and engineering services.
• Support proposal development, technical solutioning, and customer engagement.

Customer & Stakeholder Engagement

• Serve as a primary interface with government customers, including DoD program offices and end users.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders across defense and intelligence communities.
• Ensure customer satisfaction and mission success across all programs.

People Leadership

• Lead and develop a high-performing team of engineers, program managers, instructors, and technical specialists.
• Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and mission focus.
• Drive workforce planning, talent development, and succession planning initiatives.

Work Conditions:

Employee will be working within an office environment. Employee may be expected to travel up to 30%.

Job Requirements:

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Business, or related field.
• 12+ years of experience in defense, aerospace, or government contracting environments.
• 5+ years of leadership experience managing operations, programs, or business units.
• Experience with modeling & simulation, training systems, or mission systems engineering.
• Demonstrated experience managing DoD programs (cost, schedule, performance).
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance.

Preferred Requirements:

• Master’s degree in Engineering, Business (MBA), or related field.
• Experience supporting NAVSEA, NAVAIR, USAF, or other DoD customers.
• Familiarity with simulation architectures, HLA, or distributed training systems.
• Experience with EVM (Earned Value Management) and program financial oversight.
• Knowledge of instructional systems design and training development frameworks.
• Experience with software modernization and platform integration efforts.

Position Benefits

As a full-time employee of Long Wave, you are eligible for our benefits package including:

• Competitive Salary
• Medical, Dental & Vision coverage
• 401k
• Educational Assistance
• Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Programs & Work/Life Solutions
• Paid Time Off
• This position’s standard work schedule is a 9/80. The 9/80 schedule allows employees who work a nine-hour day Monday through Thursday to take every other Friday off.

EOE AA M/F/Vet/Disability