Chief Operating Officer

About the Role:
We are seeking a visionary and execution-driven Chief Operating Officer to lead and scale the company’s operational capabilities as we transition from prototyping to full-scale mission deployment. This executive will oversee manufacturing, supply chain, facilities, mission integration, and cross-functional program delivery. You will work closely with the CEO, CTO, and scientific leads to build a high-performing, accountable organization prepared for orbital and deep-space initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute scalable operational systems across hardware production, logistics, and mission readiness.

• Oversee day-to-day operations including manufacturing, supply chain, facilities, and vendor management.

• Build and lead internal teams across engineering, production, QA, and mission operations.

• Drive alignment between R&D, systems engineering, and commercialization timelines.

• Implement KPIs and operational dashboards to track productivity, throughput, and mission success.

• Collaborate with legal and finance on compliance, government contracting, and export controls.

• Partner with the CEO on capital deployment, operational budgets, and strategic planning.

• Ensure operational risk mitigation, contingency planning, and reliability standards for mission-critical components.

• Support government and commercial clients by ensuring schedule fidelity and operational excellence.

Qualifications:

• 10+ years in aerospace, defense, or deep-tech operations; startup or venture-backed experience strongly preferred.

• Proven success leading hardware or dual-use technology from prototype to scale.

• Expertise in manufacturing operations, supply chain, program delivery, and team leadership.

• Experience in space systems, launch readiness, or mission-critical product delivery is a strong plus.

• Comfort with ambiguity, fast-paced environments, and early-stage scaling.

• Engineering or technical degree preferred; MBA or relevant graduate degree a plus.

Compensation:

• Base salary: $250K – $300K

• Equity: 0.5% – 1.0%

• Performance-based bonuses

• Comprehensive benefits and relocation assistance (if applicable)