Job Details

Manager, Research Operations (Confidential – AmLaw 100)

Compensation & Location

• $130,000 – $185,000 base salary
• Overtime + discretionary bonus
• Open to candidates based in: Washington, DC | San Francisco | Los Angeles | San Diego | Las Vegas
• Hybrid structure (varies by office)

A globally recognized AmLaw 100 law firm is seeking a Manager, Research Operations to lead and modernize its technical services and research infrastructure across a high-performing legal environment. This is a high-impact leadership role—not maintenance. You'll step into a function with strong institutional knowledge and be tasked with optimizing workflows, elevating systems, and aligning stakeholders across the firm.

The environment demands structure, clarity, and execution—this is for someone who knows how to build trust with experienced teams while still pushing performance forward.

What You'll Own

• Lead all Technical Services functions (cataloging, acquisitions, renewals, invoice processing) across the research/library function
• Manage, mentor, and develop a tenured team, driving accountability and performance without disrupting continuity
• Evaluate current workflows and implement process improvements that actually stick
• Partner cross-functionally with leadership, attorneys, and vendors to ensure alignment and service delivery
• Support contract lifecycle management and contribute to annual budgeting strategy
• Oversee both physical and digital collections, including usage tracking and optimization
• Ensure seamless access to electronic resources and research tools across the firm

What They're Looking For

• ~7+ years of experience within a law firm or fast-paced professional services environment
• Strong background in technical services, library systems, and resource management
• Proven ability to implement change without breaking operations
• Leadership style built on consistency, clarity, and accountability
• Ability to influence and build credibility across a long-tenured, high-level team
• Strong analytical mindset with the ability to translate data into action
• MLS (ALA-accredited) preferred
• Experience with EOS or similar library systems is a plus

The Opportunity

• Join a firm consistently ranked among the top law firms globally (AmLaw / Vault recognized)
• Operate in a role with real visibility and influence across practice groups
• Step into a function where your impact will be felt immediately
• Work alongside leadership that values structure, execution, and forward-thinking operations