Program Operations Specialist
Overview
LMI is seeking an experienced Program Operations Specialist within our Policy Analysis & Operations Group to provide specialized support to NASA's Science Mission Directorate (SMD) Planetary Sciences Division (PSD). This role will directly contribute to a wide range of business, operational, and administrative activities critical to the success of SMD's strategic objectives. The Specialist will collaborate with senior executives, management, business service offices, and SMD's partners, including NASA centers, federal agencies, universities, and laboratories. This position may require on-site presence to facilitate effective coordination and communication across diverse teams and stakeholders.
LMI, a consultancy dedicated to empowering a future-ready, high-performing government, draws from its extensive expertise in digital and analytic solutions, logistics, and management advisory services. We are proud to be recognized as a 2024 #BuiltInTopWorkplace in the United States, reflecting our commitment to fostering a people-centered culture.
Responsibilities
- Provide executive and program support, including task management, meeting coordination, scheduling, and ensuring efficient organizational operations across multiple SMD divisions and Agency organizational levels.
- Integrate actions and schedule milestones across different elements of SMD, aligning efforts with strategic objectives and ensuring smooth communication and collaboration among internal and external stakeholders.
- Assist the International Mars Exploration Working Group (IMEWG) Secretariat in managing logistics for activities such as scheduling, venue arrangements, stakeholder engagement, and member coordination. Develop and maintain comprehensive chart packages to support discussions.
- Support the Mars Exploration Program (MEP) Program Executives by conducting in-depth analyses of commercial studies and evaluating potential opportunities. Engage with leading industry stakeholders to foster collaborations and advance strategic objectives.
- Perform technology analysis and market research to identify emerging trends and advancements relevant to the Mars Exploration Program. Provide actionable recommendations to inform strategic decisions based on comprehensive data assessments.
- Provide operational support for projects related to Humans to Mars and Planetary Protection, including research, data collection, report preparation, and presentation development. Manage logistics for related workshops and seminars, coordinating with team members and external partners to ensure project success.
- Develop strategic communication approaches and schedules to facilitate the implementation and execution of organizational operations, actions, and tasks.
- Collaborate effectively with SMD's organizational teams to identify process improvements, streamline workflows, and enhance overall operational efficiency.
- Produce project activity reports that include barriers encountered, critical issues, and overall progress updates for necessary personnel.
- Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to database management tools and project-related systems, ensuring data integrity, validation, and quality control.
- Execute special projects and other duties as requested.
Qualifications
Minimum:
- Bachelor’s degree (B.A. or B.S.)
- 3 years of relevant work experience.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, with the ability to develop a variety of written and presentation-based deliverables.
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team-based environment.
- Experience with executive-level administrative support or a Chief of Staff role.
- Proficiency in managing multiple calendars, meeting coordination, and strategic planning.
- Ability to travel to and work on client sites as needed.
- Excellent customer relationship management skills.
Preferred:
- Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
- Familiarity with low-code/no-code technology solutions.
- Experience in strategic communication, event planning, and stakeholder engagement.