Drone Operations Manager Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Sine Engineering builds the technology behind reliable drone autonomy- communications, navigation, and control systems that enable coordinated multi-drone operations at scale. More than 200 UAV manufacturers rely on our technologies, and our solutions power many of the interceptor operations active today. Through our dual-use platform, we support civilian innovation while helping democratic nations strengthen their technological advantage.

Any drone. Any scale. Anywhere. Resilient communication, navigation, and coordination systems built for the age of autonomy.

We are seeking a Field Operations & Integration Manager to lead technology integration and adoption for military and enterprise customers- from initial technical requirements through deployment, user training, and feedback-driven product improvements.

• Own client integration projects end-to-end, from initial discovery and requirements gathering through deployment and handoff to support teams.

• Lead structured discovery sessions with clients to understand UAV platforms, mission requirements, integration environments, and success criteria.

• Translate complex or ambiguous customer requirements into clear technical specifications, project scope, and acceptance criteria.

• Work closely with engineering teams to validate feasibility, estimate effort, and develop implementation plans.

• Plan project timelines, resources, priorities, and deliverables while coordinating engineers, pilots, and technical specialists.

• Serve as the primary technical point of contact for customers throughout the project lifecycle.

• Manage risks, dependencies, scope changes, and stakeholder expectations to ensure successful project delivery.

• Coordinate product demonstrations, field trials, and deployment activities.

• Ensure readiness of equipment, personnel, documentation, and training materials for customer engagements.

• Organize and support acceptance testing, user onboarding, and customer training activities.

• Collect, structure, and communicate customer feedback to Product and R&D teams.

• Support troubleshooting efforts and coordinate resolution of field-reported issues.

• Provide operational coordination for the U.S. office, ensuring alignment across Integration, R&D, Logistics, and Operations teams.

• Coordinate equipment shipments, inventory readiness, and logistical support for field activities.

• Track project milestones, documentation, and compliance requirements.

• Identify bottlenecks and drive corrective actions to maintain project momentum.

• Maintain project documentation, status reporting, change logs, and lessons learned.

• 5+ years of experience managing technical projects (experience with hardware, drones, R&D, or systems integration is a strong plus).

• Experience leading complex technical integration projects involving both hardware and software components.

• Proven ability to translate ambiguous client requirements into structured specifications, well-defined project scopes, and actionable deliverables.

• Strong client-facing communication skills and confidence leading technical discussions with customers and stakeholders.

• Excellent stakeholder management and cross-functional coordination abilities.

• Ability to manage multiple concurrent workstreams in a dynamic, fast-paced, and high-pressure environment.

• Experience with project management and collaboration tools such as Jira, Azure DevOps, Notion, or similar platforms.

• Strong risk and change management capabilities, with a high level of ownership, accountability, and self-organization.

• Willingness to travel and support field activities as required.

• Experience working with UAVs, robotics, embedded systems, or defense technologies.

• Experience organizing and managing field trials, testing campaigns, and hardware demonstrations.

• Basic understanding of networking, communications systems, and electronics.

• PMP, PRINCE2, Scrum Master, or similar project management certifications.

• Experience working with distributed international teams.

• Previous experience supporting military, defense, or government customers.

Compensation will be based on current market data for similar Field Operations & Integration Manager roles within the United States. Actual compensation will depend on factors such as experience, certifications, geographic location, and the scope of responsibilities.

We are committed to fair and transparent compensation practices. Final salary details will be discussed during the interview process and determined in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local employment laws, including applicable pay transparency requirements.

Please note: This statement is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute a binding offer of employment.

Fredericksburg, Virginia (On-site)

Sine Engineering and its employees are committed to conducting business with the highest ethical standards. Compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and industry requirements is expected.

Our reputation for integrity and innovation is as important as our commitment to delivering advanced communication, navigation, and sensing solutions.

Sine Engineering is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Don't meet every requirement?

Research shows that many talented individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification listed in a job description. At Sine Engineering, we value potential, authenticity, and diverse perspectives. If you're excited about our mission but don't meet every requirement, we still encourage you to apply. You may be the perfect fit for this role- or another opportunity within our growing organization.

Join our dynamic team and help shape the future of UAV technology by bridging the gap between advanced engineering and real-world operational success. If you're passionate about aviation, defense technology, and mission-critical systems- and excited to work at the intersection of innovation, customer engagement, and field operations- we encourage you to apply.