Skilled Trades Manager

Skilled Trades Manager

Wilmington, NC
Full-Time | On-Site
Q-Clearance Required or Eligible

Job Description

Reports to the Test Operations Lead and provides direct supervision of the Skilled Trades organization. Accountable for hiring, developing, evaluating, and retaining Skilled Trades, as well as maintaining qualification programs and workforce readiness. Partners with other team Managers to align staffing with operational needs while maintaining long-term organizational capability. This position will work closely with each branch of skilled trades, the Shift Operations Supervisor, Engineering management, and Facilities Manager as needed to accomplish organizational objectives.

May be required to work extended hours or off-normal schedules.

Roles and Responsibilities

Personnel Leadership & Workforce Management

• Provides direct supervision, coaching, and development for Skilled Trades at all levels.
• Establishes performance expectations, conducts evaluations, and provides ongoing feedback.
• Develops employee growth plans, supports career progression, and identifies future leaders.
• Recommends promotions and administers merit increases within established guidelines.
• Addresses employee concerns and supports employee relations and disciplinary actions in coordination with management and HR.
• Determines staffing requirements and maintains appropriate staffing levels and qualification coverage.
• Leads recruiting, interviewing, hiring recommendations, and onboarding of Skilled Trades personnel.
• Approves leave, schedule adjustments, and overtime within delegated authority.

Performance, Qualifications & Training

• Monitors employee performance and drives continuous improvement.
• Implements performance improvement actions when necessary and maintains required personnel documentation.
• Oversees Skilled Trades qualification and continuing training programs.
• Ensures qualification standards, materials, and processes remain current and effective.
• Tracks qualification progress, resolves barriers, and evaluates readiness for qualification completion.

Continuous Improvement & Coordination

• Reviews performance trends and implements improvements to technician processes, procedures, and training programs.
• Supports the Corrective Action Program and incorporates operating experience and lessons learned.
• Reinforces Conduct of Operations standards.
• Coordinates with other team Managers and the Shift Operations Supervisor to ensure staffing readiness and operational alignment.
• Collaborates with Engineering, Maintenance, Radiation Protection, Facilities, and other organizations to support operations.
• Supports Test Operations Lead priorities and departmental initiatives.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Maintains qualification and personnel records.
• Develops workforce metrics and management reports.
• Supports budget planning, resource management, project planning, and workforce forecasting.
• Performs other assigned duties.

Leadership Expectations

• Holds personnel accountable for performance and standards.
• Builds a disciplined, professional, and results-driven team.
• Applies Conduct of Operations principles.
• Makes consistent, objective personnel decisions.
• Develops future leaders through coaching and delegation.
• Promotes clear communication and teamwork.
• Demonstrates integrity and sound judgment.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, Business Management, or related field with 8+ years of relevant experience; or 12+ years of relevant experience in lieu of a degree.
• Leadership experience in a nuclear, industrial, manufacturing, or similarly regulated environment.
• Experience supervising and developing technical personnel.
• Knowledge of Conduct of Operations and Human Performance principles.
• Ability to manage performance and multiple priorities.
• Strong communication skills.
• Ability to obtain and maintain required security clearances.
• Ability to work extended hours or off-normal schedules.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience leading teams in a nuclear, industrial area, or highly regulated environment.
• Experience managing qualification or training programs.
• Experience with recruiting, hiring, and workforce planning.
• Experience conducting performance evaluations and administering compensation.
• Experience with Corrective Action Programs or continuous improvement systems.
• DOE, NRC, Laser, or similar industry experience.