Test & Evaluation Operations Lead

Anduril Industries•Costa Mesa, CA

About The Position

We are seeking a T&E Operations Lead to provide critical, high-level support to the VP of Test & Evaluation. In this pivotal role, you will act as a strategic thought partner, trusted advisor, and operational force multiplier for the VP. You will oversee the execution of strategic priorities, streamline business operations within the T&E organization, and drive high-impact initiatives across a broad spectrum of responsibilities. Your mandate will range from solving immediate operational challenges and optimizing processes to leading complex, cross-functional projects that directly support the VP's vision and the overall success of the Test & Evaluation function. You will be instrumental in ensuring organizational alignment, efficiency, and growth, collaborating closely with the VP and senior leadership teams to achieve strategic objectives.

Requirements

8+ years of progressive professional experience in operations, program management, or a Chief of Staff role, with at least 3+ years supporting senior leadership (VP-level or higher).
Demonstrated ability to operate with a high degree of emotional intelligence, discretion, and a people-centric, data-driven approach to complex problem-solving.
Exceptional organizational and project management skills, capable of independently managing multiple complex initiatives simultaneously in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
Strong technical acumen with the ability to understand complex engineering challenges and collaborate effectively with highly technical teams.
Proven ability to navigate complex organizational structures and influence without direct authority.
Ability to travel frequently as needed to various test sites and company locations.
Must maintain an active U.S. Top Secret security clearance.

Nice To Haves

MBA or a relevant advanced degree (e.g., Engineering Management, Project Management).
Direct experience in a Chief of Staff role within a fast-paced technology company, defense contractor, or a similar high-growth environment.
Experience in Test & Evaluation, R&D, or bringing complex hardware/software products to market in a defense or aerospace context.

Responsibilities

Strategic Planning & Execution Partner: Act as a strategic advisor and operational partner to the VP of T&E, helping to define, prioritize, and drive the execution of the organization's strategic roadmap and annual objectives.
Operational Excellence & Organizational Management: Oversee and optimize the day-to-day business operations of the T&E organization, including organizational design, talent planning, resource allocation, facility planning, security compliance, and legal support. Ensure the T&E organization operates efficiently and effectively to deliver on its mission.
Strategic Initiatives Leadership: Identify, scope, and lead high-priority strategic projects and cross-functional initiatives on behalf of the VP, ensuring timely execution, impact, and alignment with T&E and company goals.
Communications & Stakeholder Management: Manage internal and external communications for the VP, preparing presentations, reports, and briefings for executive leadership, board members, and external partners. Act as a primary liaison, building and nurturing relationships with key stakeholders across Anduril and the defense community.
Financial Stewardship: Partner with the VP and Anduril finance teams to manage the T&E organization's budget, financial planning, resource allocation, and burn rate, ensuring fiscal responsibility and strategic investment.
Problem Solving & Risk Mitigation: Proactively identify operational bottlenecks, critical issues, and potential risks within the T&E function. Develop and implement data-driven solutions to enhance efficiency, mitigate risks, and enable rapid scaling.
Talent & Culture Development: Collaborate with HR and T&E leadership to foster a high-performance culture, support talent acquisition strategies, and drive professional development initiatives across the team.
External Representation: Manage external interfaces, including conferences, industry events, and strategic partnerships, representing the VP and the T&E organization as needed.

Benefits

Healthcare Benefits
US Roles: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans at little to no cost to you.
UK & AUS Roles: We cover full cost of medical insurance premiums for you and your dependents.
IE Roles: We offer an annual contribution toward your private health insurance for you and your dependents.
Additional Benefits
Income Protection: Anduril covers life and disability insurance for all employees.
Generous time off: Highly competitive PTO plans with a holiday hiatus in December. Caregiver & Wellness Leave is available to care for family members, bond with a new baby, or address your own medical needs.
Family Planning & Parenting Support: Coverage for fertility treatments (e.g., IVF, preservation), adoption, and gestational carriers, along with resources to support you and your partner from planning to parenting.
Mental Health Resources: Access free mental health resources 24/7, including therapy and life coaching. Additional work-life services, such as legal and financial support, are also available.
Professional Development: Annual reimbursement for professional development
Commuter Benefits: Company-funded commuter benefits based on your region.
Relocation Assistance: Available depending on role eligibility.
Retirement Savings Plan
US Roles: Traditional 401(k), Roth, and after-tax (mega backdoor Roth) options.
UK & IE Roles: Pension plan with employer match.
AUS Roles: Superannuation plan.