Senior Operations Manager

About Firehawk Aerospace Firehawk Aerospace designs, manufactures, and tests advanced rocket propulsion systems across multiple specialized facilities. Our work requires highly coordinated operations, safe handling of energetic materials, facility readiness, and continuous improvement. The Operations Facilities Manager will oversee facility operations, site safety, maintenance, construction planning, and readiness across all Firehawk locations.

Job Summary The Operations Facilities Manager is responsible for leading the safe, compliant, and efficient operation of Firehawk's manufacturing, testing, development, and machine shop facilities. This role manages facility maintenance programs, construction and expansion planning, utilities and infrastructure readiness, and coordination between operations, engineering, safety, and quality teams. The ideal candidate has strong experience in facility operations management within aerospace, defense, manufacturing, or similarly regulated industries.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee facility operations across manufacturing, Research and Development, testing, and machining locations
• Ensure full compliance with OSHA, EHS, ATF, NFPA, environmental, and local regulatory requirements
• Manage facility maintenance programs, including preventive, scheduled, and corrective maintenance
• Lead facilities layout planning to optimize workflow, safety, and productivity
• Support facility expansion projects, facility modifications, and infrastructure upgrades
• Maintain readiness of utilities, HVAC, compressed gas systems, power distribution, fire suppression systems, and high-hazard test infrastructure
• Partner with programs, engineering, safety, and quality teams to support production readiness and site efficiency
• Support vendor relationships for facility services, maintenance contractors, and external construction partners
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance facility safety, reliability, and operational capability
• Support emergency response planning and site risk mitigation activities
• Maintain documentation for inspections, compliance audits, facility records, and regulatory reporting

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Facilities Management, Operations Management, or related field
• Minimum of 12 years' experience in engineering, facility operations, industrial maintenance, or site management
• Experience supporting manufacturing, aerospace, defense, or technical Research and Development environments
• Demonstrated knowledge of OSHA, EHS, NFPA, and facility safety standards
• Experience with facility layout, construction planning, or project management
• Strong understanding of utilities, mechanical systems, electrical systems, and industrial infrastructure
• Experience managing maintenance teams or technical personnel
• Excellent communication and leadership skills
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DOD-issued security clearance
• Ability to travel between sites up to 30%

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with energetic materials or hazardous test environments
• Background in rocket motor manufacturing, test sites, or propulsion development facilities
• Experience managing large facility expansion and construction projects
• Familiarity with Deltek Costpoint or similar ERP systems
• Certification in facilities management, project management, lean manufacturing, or Six Sigma

ITAR Requirements To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., a protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements This position requires mobility across manufacturing, testing, machine shop, and outdoor test environments. Duties may include walking, climbing, lifting up to 25 pounds, and working in high-hazard areas with appropriate PPE. Personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, safety shoes, hearing protection, flame-resistant clothing, and respiratory protection may be required based on task demands. The role may involve varying work hours including early mornings, nights, or weekends to support operations or facility maintenance activities.

Security Clearance May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance at the appropriate level. Requires U.S. Citizenship and ability to meet federal requirements for access to sensitive information.

Benefits at Firehawk Aerospace

• 100% employer-paid medical premiums for employees and up to 75% for dependents on select plans
• Affordable dental and vision plans with extensive coverage
• Employee Assistance Program including counseling, legal services, and wellness resources
• Flexible 9/80 work schedule option
• On-site snacks and refreshments
• Mentorship opportunities and involvement in advanced aerospace projects Firehawk Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected characteristics.