Operations & Project Manager

We are working with a European defense technology company developing AI-powered autonomous robotic systems.

We are looking for an Operations & Project Manager to oversee day-to-day operations, coordinate engineering and production projects, and help build the processes needed to support a fast-growing hardware startup.

This is a hands-on role for someone who combines strong operational skills with experience managing complex technical projects and working across multiple teams.

What you will own:

- Manage day-to-day operations, including procurement, supply chain, vendors, facilities and internal processes
- Plan and coordinate projects across engineering, R&D, production and customer deployments
- Track project timelines, milestones, budgets, risks and dependencies
- Coordinate with engineering teams, external manufacturers and production partners
- Identify bottlenecks, resolve operational issues and keep projects on track
- Build and improve internal processes, workflows and reporting systems
- Manage relationships with suppliers, contract manufacturers and external partners
- Work closely with the founders to support operational efficiency and company growth

What we are looking for:

- 4–8 years of experience in operations, project or programme management
- Experience in hardware, robotics, aerospace, defense or other complex engineering environments
- Proven ability to manage cross-functional projects from planning through delivery
- Hands-on experience with operational processes, suppliers or production coordination
- Strong organisational, problem-solving and stakeholder management skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently
- High ownership, attention to detail and comfort working in a fast-paced startup environment
- Professional working proficiency in both English and Spanish
- Based in Madrid or willing to relocate

Strong advantages:

- Experience in hardware manufacturing, industrialisation or new product introduction (NPI)
- Background in drones, UAVs, robotics or defense technology
- Experience working with contract manufacturers and supply chains
- Familiarity with Agile methodologies in hardware development
- PMP or similar project management certification
- Understanding of defense industry requirements

Location and ways of working:

This is a full-time role based in Madrid , with a hybrid working arrangement.

The company offers a competitive compensation package, significant autonomy and the opportunity to work directly with the founders while helping scale an innovative European defense technology company.