Head of Operations for Defense Tech Startup

JRN: 2505

We are seeking an experienced Head of Operations to oversee the launch and ongoing operations of the Albuquerque facility for a fast-growing, cutting-edge defense technology company.

This is a highly visible leadership role for someone who thrives in dynamic, high-growth environments and enjoys building operational infrastructure from the ground up. Reporting directly to the CEO, you will serve as the primary onsite leader responsible for day-to-day site operations, facilities management, vendor oversight, customer coordination, and operational execution. You will work closely with engineering, operations, safety, and government stakeholders to ensure the facility operates safely, efficiently, and is prepared to support critical customer programs.

Responsibilities

Site Operations & Leadership

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the Albuquerque facility, including staffing, scheduling, budgets, and overall site performance.
• Build and establish operational processes, procedures, and site infrastructure as the organization continues to scale.
• Identify operational risks and proactively recommend solutions to executive leadership.
• Support hiring, onboarding, and development of onsite team members as the facility grows.

Facilities & Office Operations

• Manage all aspects of facility operations, maintenance, capital improvements, and workplace readiness.
• Coordinate office setup, equipment, supplies, utilities, and vendor services to ensure seamless daily operations.
• Oversee procurement activities, site expenses, and operational purchasing.
• Ensure the facility remains safe, organized, customer-ready, and operationally efficient.

Vendor & Contractor Management

• Serve as the primary onsite contact for vendors, contractors, suppliers, and service providers.
• Coordinate contractor scheduling, facility improvements, maintenance projects, and equipment installations.
• Manage vendor relationships and ensure timely execution of site-related projects and services.

Operational Coordination

• Partner cross-functionally with engineering, technical, and safety teams to coordinate facility schedules and operational priorities.
• Help establish repeatable operating rhythms, maintenance schedules, visitor protocols, and other site processes that enable efficient growth.
• Support execution of customer programs and ensure operational readiness for critical testing activities.

Government & Customer Relations

• Coordinate onsite customer visits, executive meetings, and operational logistics.
• Serve as the primary onsite point of contact during customer visits, audits, inspections, and regulatory engagements.
• Support government contract execution and maintain a professional, organized experience for customer stakeholders.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience leading operations, facilities, or site management within a technical, highly regulated, manufacturing, industrial, aerospace, defense, energy, or similar environment.
• Demonstrated success managing facilities, budgets, vendors, contractors, and operational priorities.
• Experience building processes and scaling operations within a startup or high-growth organization preferred.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and communicate effectively with technical staff, executives, customers, and external stakeholders.
• Comfortable operating independently with a high level of ownership, accountability, and sound judgment.
• Experience supporting government customers, regulatory agencies, or compliance-driven environments is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with high-hazard, laboratory, manufacturing, or industrial operations is a plus.
• Prior experience supporting DoD, DOE, or other federal programs is preferred.

Location: Albuquerque, NM

Schedule: Onsite, Monday-Friday

Compensation & Benefits:

• $120,000-$140,000 base salary (DOE)
• Equity
• Comprehensive benefits package