Director Operations Excellence Jobs in Reston, VA

Title: Director of Operations
Company: Heven AeroTech 
Location: Headquarters - Sterling, Virginia
FLSA: Exempt

About Our Company:
At Heven AeroTech (Heven), we don't just believe in the power of people-we build our success on it. As a recognized leader in hydrogen powered drones, we've earned recognition for creating a workplace where innovation thrives, collaboration is second nature, and every employee feels valued. Our culture is anchored in trust, and a shared commitment to excellence. We know that great organizations are built by extraordinary teams. That's why we invest in your professional growth, offering robust training programs, leadership development opportunities, and a clear pathway for advancement. At Heven, your voice matters, your ideas are heard, and your contributions make a tangible impact.

Role Summary: 
The Director of Operations is responsible for leading and scaling all operational functions for the company's unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) programs, including manufacturing, supply chain, logistics, program execution, and operational infrastructure. This role ensures efficient production, regulatory compliance, and delivery of high-performance drone systems to government, defense, and commercial customers. The Director of Operations works closely with Engineering, Program Management, and Executive Leadership to transition UAV platforms from development to scalable production while maintaining quality, reliability, and cost efficiency.

Essential Responsibilities: 
Operational Strategy & Leadership

• Ensure communication of company goals and objectives to all department heads
• Develop and execute operational strategies that support company growth and UAV program delivery.
• Oversee day-to-day operations including manufacturing, production planning, supply chain, logistics, and facilities.
• Establish scalable operational infrastructure to support rapid company expansion.
• Align operational priorities with engineering development and product roadmap.

Program Execution

• Collaborate with Program Management and Engineering to ensure operational readiness for UAV programs.
• Support prototype builds, flight testing operations, and product deployment.
• Ensure production and logistics align with program schedules and contractual commitments.

Quality, Compliance & Safety

• Ensure compliance with aviation, defense, and regulatory standards (FAA, export controls, and other applicable requirements).
• Oversee quality management systems and manufacturing quality processes.
• Establish and enforce safety standards across manufacturing and testing operations.

Process Improvement & Operational Excellence

• Implement continuous improvement initiatives across production and operational workflows.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Utilize operational metrics and data analytics to improve performance.

Financial & Resource Management

• Work with Finance to develop and manage operational budgets and cost targets.
• Monitor operational expenses and implement cost-control measures.
• Optimize use of personnel, equipment, and facilities.

Team Leadership & Organizational Development

• Build and lead a high-performing operations team including manufacturing, supply chain, logistics, and production staff.
• Mentor and develop operations leaders and managers.
• Foster a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications & Experience: 

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Supply Chain, or related field.
• MBA or advanced technical degree preferred.

Experience

• 10+ years of experience in operations leadership within aerospace, robotics, hardware technology, or defense sectors.
• 5+ years managing manufacturing or production operations.
• Experience scaling hardware production from prototype to full-scale manufacturing.
• Experience with UAV systems, aerospace products, or complex electro-mechanical systems preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Primarily an office-based role but requires occasional presence in manufacturing, testing, and logistics areas.
• Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout production and testing facilities for extended periods (up to several hours at a time).
• Occasional lifting or carrying of materials or equipment up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to climb stairs, ladders, or step onto platforms to inspect production lines or UAV prototypes.
• Requires clear vision (including color vision) to inspect UAV components, read technical documents, and monitor displays.
• Ability to hear and communicate effectively in both office and production/test environments.
• Exposure to moderate noise, temperature variations, and other environmental factors typical of manufacturing or flight test areas; use of personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required.
• Extended periods of sitting, standing, or computer work when performing administrative, planning, or operational coordination tasks.

Benefits Overview:
Heven AeroTech offers a competitive benefits package designed to support the health, financial security, and overall well-being of our employees and their families. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, retirement plans, paid time off/sick, and additional protections such as critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident coverage, and short- and long-term disability.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: 
Heven AeroTech is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.