Lithium is the wonder metal that sits at the heart of the global shift to EVs. Although EV demand is skyrocketing, global lithium supply cannot keep up using traditional extraction methods. The only way the industry will be able to scale lithium supplies by 15 times is by efficiently extracting the element from brine deposits, which contain about three quarters of all known lithium reserves.
Lithios is a technology company based in Cambridge, MA, commercializing a breakthrough electrochemical process called Advanced Lithium Extraction (ALE). ALE uses renewable electricity to make lithium cheaply, safely, and with a lower carbon footprint. Moreover, ALE is more versatile than traditional extraction methods and can unlock huge untapped lithium resources in the US and globally, alleviating a major bottleneck in the global transition to EVs.
We are building a diverse and collaborative company. Our employees put team and mission first, build with humility and compassion, and strive to make the world a better place. We are a high-growth startup backed by world-leading organizations and investors. At Lithios, we wake up every day to do the most fulfilling, impactful work of our lives. Come change the world with us!
Position Overview
Lithios seeks a Head of Operations who will be responsible for strategic leadership over a wide range of the company's operational needs in the following areas:
partnering with senior management in strategic, operational, and financial planning to ensure timely and cost-effective execution of Lithios's business plan;
fostering a high-performing workforce, developing company policies, and collaborating with external stakeholders to execute company activities effectively;
establishing and implementing methods to track, assess, and maximize staff performance;
building a foundation for Lithios's marketing, public relations, and communications needs.
This full-time role is in person at Lithios's office in the Boston area. The Head of Operations will report to the CEO and will work closely with the rest of the leadership team at Lithios.
Candidate Qualifications
Bachelor's degree is required. A Master of Business Administration degree is a plus.
7+ years of relevant experience managing complex projects and operations.
Experience leading small teams and building company culture is strongly preferred.
Understanding of standard HR practices is a plus. Familiarity with standard performance management practices is a plus.
Experience with marketing, advertising, or communications methods and tools is a plus.
Proficient in utilizing Slack, Gusto/Rippling, Google, Microsoft Suite, LinkedIn, and other relevant software, applications, and social media platforms to enhance operational efficiency.
Highly organized with sharp attention to detail and effective communication skills.
Ability to set and deliver on ambitious company goals while remaining agile as priorities evolve.
The desire to work in a dynamic startup environment with a focus on leading, taking action, and finding impactful solutions to difficult challenges.
Key Responsibilities
Internal ops
Develop, implement, and manage operational policies and procedures which are in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
Ensure compliance and alignment with company policies and goals, including those related to human resources, travel, safety, quality, production, project execution, and accounting.
Work to ensure that operational and business goals are met within budget.
Work with R&D and Engineering leads to ensure that the technology development plan is executed effectively.
Support R&D, Engineering, and Business Development leads in monitoring and evaluating the performance of vendors and suppliers and in coordinating business activities with external parties.
Ensure Lithios's office and facilities are conducive to safe and efficient operations.
Communicate operational challenges and results across the organization to advance business and technology development.
Remain flexible with changing business needs and adapt to solve problems as they evolve.
People ops
Lead the recruiting, onboarding, and training of new staff.
Implement a performance management system for all staff.
Develop and nurture a dynamic and competent workforce through a collaborative and performance-driven culture that attracts and retains top talent.
Coach and develop employees to build high performing teams. Identify stretch responsibilities or goals to further enhance employee development.
Communications
Create and execute marketing, public relations, and communication plans aligned with company goals.
Maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including customers, investors, and media.
Compensation and Benefits
Competitive salary.
Equity in the company.
A 401(k) plan with employer matching.
Medical, dental, and vision insurance are 100% covered.
Commuter benefits and public transportation expenses are 100% covered.
20 days of paid time off and 10 days of paid sick time off, in addition to all federal holidays and all days between Christmas and New Year's Day.
Eight weeks of paid parental leave, with the option to extend for an additional four weeks of unpaid leave.
Flexible bereavement leave policy, including time off for the loss of a pet.
Coverage of up to $5,000 in eligible moving expenses.*
Company-supported opportunities in career development as well as the opportunity to be a leader in a rapidly growing organization.
A fun, diverse, and talented team focused on making the biggest impact possible on the lithium industry.
*Eligible moving expenses include moving household goods and personal effects, employee travel and lodging, packing/unpacking services
Closing Statement
Lithios is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We strive to build a team of individuals and create an environment where all backgrounds and experiences are valued. We credit our success to the diverse perspectives our team members bring and do not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, nationality, color, sexual orientation, ancestry, religion, gender identity, age, marital status, disability status, or Veteran status.
We know the right candidate may not meet all the criteria listed in this job description. If you believe you are a great candidate for this role and possess relevant skills that are not listed above, please reach out and tell us why you are a good fit!
To apply, send the following to mo@lithios.xyz:
Your resume.
A brief note (in the email body or a cover letter) describing why you are interested in this position and what you would bring to the role.
Come help us extract lithium sustainably to unlock an electric future for the world.