Project & Operations Manager (Defense)

Irradiant Technologies Inc. • Waltham, MA

76d • $140,000 - $180,000

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced Project & Operations Manager (Defense) to oversee facility management, operational processes, project execution, and defense contract support. This role is both strategic and hands-on, ensuring that our infrastructure, workflows, and compliance programs are aligned with the stringent requirements of defense customers. The successful candidate will have a strong background in facility management, operations leadership, project management, and direct experience with defense contracts and proposal development.

Requirements

• 3-5 years of experience in operations, facilities, or technical program management.
• Direct experience with defense contracts and proposals, including FAR/DFARS and ITAR compliance.
• Demonstrated project management skills, with experience managing multi-stakeholder projects to successful completion.
• Strong technical and organizational background in high-tech, defense, aerospace, manufacturing or similarly regulated environments.
• Excellent communication, documentation, and stakeholder management skills.

Nice To Haves

• Project Management Professional (PMP) or similar certification.
• Experience scaling operations in a growth-stage company.
• Familiarity with ERP, EHS, or facility management systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead cross-functional projects from initiation through completion, ensuring deliverables are met on time and within budget.
• Develop project plans, timelines, milestones, and resource allocations for operational and defense-related initiatives.
• Coordinate across engineering, manufacturing, compliance, and business development to manage dependencies and risks.
• Serve as the operational and project lead for defense and government proposal efforts, contributing facility, compliance, and technical inputs.
• Manage operational deliverables tied to defense contracts, including compliance audits, inspections, and reporting.
• Ensure readiness of operations and facilities to support awarded contracts, including security clearances, ITAR requirements, and customer audits.
• Lead implementation of ITAR, DFARS/FAR, ISO, and other relevant standards across facilities and operations.
• Maintain compliance documentation and serve as point-of-contact for operational audits.
• Coordinate with legal, HR, and technical teams to ensure defense-related workforce and facility compliance.
• Lead all aspects of facility operations, including maintenance, safety, security, and vendor management.
• Oversee equipment readiness, calibration schedules, and asset tracking systems.
• Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, and program teams to ensure operations align with technical and production needs.

Benefits

• Salary range of $140K - $180K.
• Generous equity stake.
• Flexible Paid Time Off policy.
• Annual reimbursement for benefits to give employees greater flexibility.

What This Job Offers

• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees