The company is a fast-moving aerospace startup launched in 2019, focused on building cutting-edge unmanned aerial platforms and miniaturized sensor technologies for defense and commercial use. Currently seeking an experienced Chief of Staff who will be responsible for driving internal coordination, company culture, hiring, and office management, ensuring the company remains mission-focused, high-performing, and deeply aligned.

The Company

• Founded by individuals with deep operational field experience, this agile engineering organization designs and builds advanced unmanned systems and next-gen sensor platforms for mission-critical applications.
• The team combines technical depth with a strong sense of mission, delivering practical solutions for users working in complex, real-world environments.
• Seeking a dynamic, resourceful Chief of Staff to act as the CEO’s right hand and oversee the day-to-day operations of the headquarters of aerospace engineers.

The Compensation

• $145K - $170K Competitive Annual Base Salary Plus Stock Option Package and Bonus Plan Commensurate with Experience

The Location

• Fully onsite role based in the Phoenix, AZ area

The Benefits

• Comprehensive Medical Coverage (2 PPO & 1 PPO/Health Savings Account Options)
• Preventative Care Services Covered at No Cost
• Dental PPO Plan Options
• Vision Plan Options
• Voluntary Life & AD&D Insurance
• Short & Long-Term Disability Plans
• Exclusive Employee Discount Program through BenefitHub
• Clever Rx Prescription Discount Program

The Role

• Serve as the primary operational partner to the CEO, streamlining internal workflows and freeing up executive bandwidth.
• Oversee all aspects of daily office operations, including supply management, event coordination (birthdays, celebrations, all-hands), and vendor relationships.
• Ensure the Phoenix office environment is professional, well-organized, and aligned with company values.
• Own and drive company culture initiatives that build morale, reinforce mission alignment, and foster a positive, high-performance work environment.
• Serve as a daily presence and cheerleader in the office, setting the tone, solving interpersonal challenges, and leading by example.
• Mediate and manage complex personalities and internal conflicts with discretion, empathy, and firmness.
• Manage end-to-end hiring coordination: post openings, screen candidates, schedule interviews, and ensure smooth onboarding.
• Work with General Counsel to oversee employment contracts, offer letters, and compliance with applicable labor laws.
• Maintain headcount planning and ensure staffing aligns with strategic goals.
• Maintain internal operating rhythms (e.g. meeting cadences, documentation, task tracking).
• Ensure deadlines and deliverables across departments are met by holding people accountable in coordination with department heads.
• Identify operational inefficiencies and recommend process improvements.

The Background Profile

• U.S. Citizenship required
• Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration or relevant field; Master's Degree a plus
• 5+ years of experience in operations, people leadership, or Chief-of-Staff type roles in fast-paced startups or aerospace/tech environments
• Prior experience in aerospace, defense, or engineering companies
• Proven ability to manage projects independently with a strong sense of ownership
• Skill at balancing professional rigor with cultural leadership
• Passion for technology, national security, and startup culture
• Ability to be based or willing to relocate to Phoenix, AZ

The Ideal Background

• Detail-oriented, highly organized, and unflappable under pressure
• High emotional intelligence and strong interpersonal skills; must be able to handle difficult personalities and resolve internal tensions
• Multidisciplinary problem solver driven by rigorous engineering analysis
• Goal-oriented, learns from mistakes, and ensures a complete design process
• Strategic, balancing scope and effort effectively
• Highly skilled in clear communication through both discussion and documentation
• Collaborative and thrives in teamwork to develop plans and solve complex problems