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.