External Operations Manager Jobs in Athens, AL (NOW HIRING)

Operations Manager

Department: Data Acquisition

Reports To: Director of Acquisition

Position Type: Full-Time / Exempt

Primary Location: Huntsville, AL or Remote

Direct Reports: Project Coordinator, Remote Sensing Technicians

Interfaces With: Director of Acquisition, COO, VP of Business Development, Director of Flight Operations, Chief Pilot, Maintenance Teams, Clients and Partners

Travel: 10-20%

Position Summary

Revolution Geosystems, LLC (RevGeo) is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to manage airborne remote sensing and ground survey programs, including planning, estimating, execution, and deliverables. This leadership role requires a self-motivated professional with a proactive approach to operations, coordinating company assets to drive successful project outcomes while maintaining a core focus on safety and client goals.

Our managers are expected to foster a positive company culture results-oriented approach where precision, continuous process improvement, and client satisfaction are foundational to every project.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

The essential functions of this position include, but are not limited to:

• Strategic Leadership: Create and manage data acquisition workflows, leveraging technical expertise to improve existing business processes and design new ones as necessary.

• Project Management: Manage the end-to-end project lifecycle with a structured approach, applying strong analytical and problem-solving skills to ensure projects meet client needs and goals.

• Sensor Management: Manage the company’s sensor suite, ensuring all equipment is calibrated, maintained, and deployed effectively to meet project requirements. Oversee the sensor support workflows to ensure operators are effectively communicating issues and following through on resolution.

• Client & Partner Relations: Build and maintain long-term relationships through strong, consistent, and clear communication, ensuring a thorough understanding of client success criteria.

• Personnel & Development: Manage and mentor the data acquisition team, including scheduling, performance management, and ongoing professional development to ensure a high-performing department.

• Administrative & Financial Oversight: Monitor financial health of projects, create status reports, generate invoicing, monitor accounts receivable and provide technical guidance to the project team to drive operational efficiency.

• Maintain accurate and timely records and documentation as required.

• Follow all applicable Company policies, procedures, safety requirements, and regulatory requirements.

• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of two years of experience in data acquisition, geospatial operations, or project management, with experience in a leadership capacity.

• Aerial imagery, lidar, bathymetric, or geophysical data collection experience required.

• Familiarity with large-format airborne sensors is essential.

• Proficiency in geospatial data platforms (ESRI products, Global Mapper, QGIS, etc.).

• Strong working knowledge of project management methodologies (Asana, MS Office, Google Workspace).

• Valid drivers license

• Legally authorized to work in the United States without restrictions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Project Management Professional (PMP) or similar certification preferred.

• Bachelor's degree in science, engineering, or related field preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Strong organizational and time-management skills.

• Attention to detail and accuracy.

• Ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.

• Ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain confidentiality.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Ability to sit for extended periods while performing computer-based work.

• Frequent use of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, telephone, and other office equipment.

• Must be able to read, analyze, and accurately prepare reports, travel itineraries, schedules, contracts, and other business documents on computer screens and printed documents.

• Ability to communicate professionally and effectively, both verbally and in writing, with employees, pilots, management, vendors, customers, and external partners via telephone, email, video conferencing, and other communication platforms.

• Ability to travel occasionally, if required.

• Ability to work extended hours, including evenings or weekends, to support operational needs.

• Must be able to lift 25 pounds.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary based on qualifications and experience

• Medical, dental, and vision Insurance

• Company-paid short-term disability and life Insurance

• Paid Vacation and Sick Leave

• Paid holidays

• 401(k) retirement plan

• Professional development opportunities

About Revolution Geosystems

Founded in 2006, Revolution Geosystems has grown into a global provider of specialized services. Today, the company operates a diverse fleet of aircraft supporting airborne data collection, survey and mapping, research and development, aircraft maintenance, and avionics installation.

Headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama, Revolution Geosystems specializes in providing customizable solutions and turnkey operations for clients worldwide. Through a commitment to safety, reliability, and operational excellence, Revolution Geosystems helps customers maximize efficiency and mission success across a wide range of operations.

Revolution is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any protected status under applicable federal, state, or local law.

If this role aligns with your experience and career goals, but you do not meet every listed qualification, we encourage you to apply. We value potential, cultural fit, and a willingness to learn just as much as direct experience