Cyber Operations Manager

Saalex is seeking a Cyber Operations Manager in Ridgecrest, CA.  Saalex Corp., is an Engineering and Information Technology Services company with a focus on Test Range Operations and Management, Engineering and Logistics Services, Data Analytics and Business Intelligence Services and Information Technology Services.

Position Type: Full-Time, Exempt

Salary: $90k-$105k annually (depending on experience)

Work Location: Onsite.

Position Overview:

As the Cyber/CDS Operations Manager, you will lead daily operations to ensure resources, personnel, and processes align with performance targets and service-level expectations. You will serve as the primary interface with government stakeholders, overseeing contract execution, resource management, and CDS operations.

This role is responsible for resolving operational challenges, mitigating risks, and driving process improvements to maintain efficiency and continuity. You will translate strategic objectives into structured workflows across engineering, ISSO, and field teams while ensuring alignment across organizations.

Key Responsibilities

• Operational Management: Oversee day-to-day CDS operations to ensure performance targets and service levels are met. Serve as the primary point of contact for government program authorities.
• Project Leadership: Lead CDS-related IT and cybersecurity efforts, ensuring timely delivery. Develop and maintain Integrated Master Schedules (IMS) from WBS.
• Process Improvement: Support and implement CMMI-aligned processes and Integrated Management Plans to enhance efficiency and consistency.
• Problem Solving: Identify and resolve operational risks, bottlenecks, and unclear requirements through analysis and coordinated solutions.
• Collaboration: Work closely with engineers, cybersecurity teams, ISSOs, and field personnel to ensure seamless execution and communication.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate project documentation, planning artifacts, system diagrams, and risk tracking deliverables.
• Other duties as assigned or required.

Requirements

Required:

• Strong organizational, communication, and technical problem-solving abilities.
• Experience coordinating interorganizational communications across technical, administrative, and vendor teams.
• Ability to research unfamiliar technical topics and propose evidence-based recommendations.
• Exposure to Cross Domain Solutions (CDS), cybersecurity architecture, NIST standards, Risk Management Framework (RMF), or secure data flow concepts.
• Minimum of 3–10 years of experience in IT project management, preferably in DoD, cybersecurity, systems engineering, or technical project management roles.
• Familiarity with firewall configurations, COMSEC equipment, or inline encryption processes and procedures.
• Proven ability to develop granular Work Breakdown Structures (WBS) and translate them into detailed Integrated Master Schedules (IMS) using project management tools like MS Project
• Journeyman-level professionals perform all functional duties independently and are expected to grow into senior roles.

Desired:

• Lean Six Sigma Yellow/Green Belt
• PMP, CAPM, Agile/Scrum certifications
• Experience with cybersecurity teams, ISSOs, or systems engineers
• Familiarity with CMMI, quality frameworks, or structured lifecycle processes.

Education:

Bachelor’s degree OR formal training in Project Management/Operations Management (e.g., PMI, DAU, Agile, Lean Six Sigma) or equivalent experience. Minimum of 3–10 years of experience with applicable certifications or 3-5 years with a BA/BS degree. Alternatively, a MA/MS degree with less than 3 years of experience. Journeyman-level professionals perform all functional duties independently and are expected to grow into senior roles.

Security Clearance:

Active Secret clearance required. TS/SCI preferred. Requirements to obtain a clearance include US Citizenship, security investigation, etc.

Benefits

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Short Term & Long Term Disability
• Training & Development
• Wellness Resources
• Stock Option Plan