// Role Summary
Join QinetiQ as an Operational Readiness Manager at Boscombe Down, leading the safe and compliant management of explosive facilities and operations. This role offers the chance to work with cutting-edge defence technology and brilliant minds.
// Key Responsibilities
- Lead safe and compliant management of licensed explosive facilities and laboratories.
- Oversee Ordnance, Munitions and Explosives (OME) operations and facility management.
- Act as the primary operational interface for customers and a Subject Matter Expert.
- Ensure facilities, personnel, and processes support research, test, and evaluation activities.
- Conduct risk assessments, audits, and incident investigations.
- Requires significant experience in OME operations and explosives safety management.
// Role Specification
About QinetiQ
At QinetiQ, we are shaping the future of defence technology and innovation to protect and empower lives. Join us as an OME Operational Readiness Manager at our Boscombe Down site and contribute to groundbreaking projects alongside leading experts.
The Role: OME Operational Readiness Manager
As an OME Operational Readiness Manager, you will be responsible for the safe, compliant, and effective management of licensed explosive facilities, laboratories, and operational areas at the Boscombe Down site. This is a pivotal role where you will oversee Ordnance, Munitions and Explosives (OME) operations, facility and equipment management, regulatory compliance, and customer engagement. You will serve as the main operational point of contact for customers and a recognized Subject Matter Expert, ensuring that all facilities, personnel, assets, and processes are maintained to the highest standards to support research, test, evaluation, and operational activities.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the safe operation, compliance, and continuous improvement of licensed explosive facilities and laboratories, adhering to all safety, security, quality, and regulatory requirements.
- Manage the full lifecycle of OME activities, including receipting, storage, inspection, movement, accounting, disposal, and explosives safety management.
- Coordinate facility operations, resources, equipment, contractors, and maintenance activities to meet customer requirements and ensure successful project delivery.
- Act as the primary interface for customers and stakeholders, providing operational oversight, technical advice on hazard management, and embedded support.
- Conduct risk assessments, audits, inspections, assurance reviews, incident investigations, and emergency preparedness activities, implementing effective control measures.
- Maintain facility accountability through accurate compliance and licensing records, HSE management (including COSHH and hazardous substances), personnel coordination, and fostering a strong safety culture and continuous improvement.
Essential Experience:
- Significant experience in Ordnance, Munitions and Explosives (OME) operations, explosives safety management, and regulatory compliance.
- Proven ability in operational leadership and stakeholder management within high-hazard and regulated environments.
- Experience managing facilities, laboratories, and technical operational environments, ensuring safe and effective delivery.
- Strong knowledge of Health & Safety, Security, explosives regulations, and safe systems of work.
- Skilled in conducting risk assessments, audits, assurance activities, and implementing effective control measures.
- Excellent communication, customer engagement, planning, coordination, and problem-solving skills.
Essential Qualifications:
- Recognised technical apprenticeship, HNC/HND, Degree, or equivalent relevant experience.
We value diversity and welcome applicants from all backgrounds who possess the required experience and a willingness to learn.
Working Hours and Location:
This role is based at our Boscombe Down site and involves working 37 hours per week.
About MOD Boscombe Down:
MOD Boscombe Down is a key operational site in the UK's aviation defence, equipped with the country's longest military runway. It specializes in providing testing, evaluation, and support services for aviation and aerospace systems, playing a crucial role in the development, testing, and airworthiness of military aircraft to enhance operational readiness and effectiveness.
Security Clearance:
Please note that all applicants for this role must be eligible for SC clearance as a minimum.
Why Join QinetiQ?
QinetiQ is experiencing exciting growth. Our success is driven by our appetite for innovation and our courage to tackle complex challenges. You will experience a unique collaborative environment where diverse teams work together to discover new solutions to complex problems. We offer an inclusive workplace where you can be authentic, feel valued, and realize your full potential.
Our Benefits:
- Matched contribution pension scheme with life assurance
- Generous holiday allowance with the option to purchase additional days
- Options for Health Cash Plan, Private Medical Insurance, and Dental Insurance
- Employee discount portal (Personal Accident Insurance, Travel Insurance, Restaurants, Cinema Tickets, and more)
- We proudly support the Armed Forces community by honoring the Armed Forces Covenant and maintaining our Gold Award standard in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.
- Volunteering Opportunities to support charities and local communities.