Site Operations Manager

Company Overview
Performance Drone Works (PDW) builds technologies for the warfighter, by the warfighter. Born out of the Drone Racing League, our roots are competitive, our mindset is tactical, and our mission is clear: deliver purpose-built unmanned systems to those who serve. We are not here to sell vapor; we build and ship real capabilities for real missions.

Now, we're expanding into Colorado and are looking for a Site Operations Manager to lead day-to-day business operations of the new location. This person will work closely with the Senior Director, Corporate Operations & People to align local practices with PDW's standards, support onsite HR and IT needs, and maintain a consistent workplace experience across sites. They will be responsible for executing decisions and priorities set at the company level.

What You'll Do

• Serve as the primary on-site business operations authority; responsible for overall site readiness, operational continuity, and daily decision making.
• Develop, implement, and refine site-wide operational processes, standards, and procedures, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
• Provide functional supervision and daily direction for on-site HR and IT support staff, including assigning priorities, guiding performance, and overseeing workflow execution; in partnership with Huntsville, AL leadership.
• Own the site administrative operating budget, including vendor contract evaluation, purchase approval, and cost-optimization.
• Manage relationships with building management and service vendors, negotiating service levels, resolving escalations, and ensuring high-quality facility operations.
• Direct workspace planning, including space utilization strategy, office layout changes, conference room standards, and facility access controls.
• Interpret and implement safety and compliance requirements, establishing local standards that comply with OSHA regulations and PDW safety standards.
• Coordinate cross-functionally with remote HR, IT, and Operations leaders to adapt company-wide policies to local needs and ensure consistent site operations.
• Support local employee relations matters by participating in investigations, assisting with onboarding/offboarding, and ensuring issues are handled properly in partnership with HR leadership.
• Plan and coordinate local team events, recognition moments, on-site celebrations, and guest visits.

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience in business operations, office management, or similar operational support role.
• Confident communicator with strong coordination and follow-through
• Experience leading or directing staff and managing cross-functional workflows (HR, IT, Facilities, or Operations).
• Working familiarity with HR and IT workflows (onboarding steps, laptop provisioning, access permissions).
• Comfortable using Microsoft 365 (Outlook, Teams, SharePoint, Excel, OneDrive).
• Strong time management skills and ability to work in-person full-time at the Denver, Colorado office.
• Ability to travel occasionally (<10%).

Preferred

• Experience in Human Resources including recruiting, using an HRIS such as UKG Ready, maintaining employee records, and handling sensitive workplace matters.
• OSHA-30 or familiarity with basic OSHA requirements and general office safety practices.
• Experience supporting office build-outs, expansions, or new site setup.
• Project management certifications such as PMP, or CAPM.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift / carry up to 25 pounds.

Work Environment

This position typically operates in a standard office setting and R&D environment. This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments. May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment. This is a fast-paced work environment and requires cross departmental collaboration with independent and team-based responsibilities. Standard works hours for this position are Monday through Friday from 8:30am-5:00pm with occasional overtime as operational needs demand.

ITAR Requirement

In compliance with International Traffic Arms Regulations (ITAR), candidates must be U.S. Citizens, U.S. Permanent Residents (Green Card holders) or individuals granted asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Compensation and Benefits

PDW values our team, and we offer a compensation package reflective of your experience and capabilities. Expected compensation range: $110,000-$140,000 per year. Benefits include:

• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company.
• Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.

EEO Statement

PDW is an equal opportunity employer that upholds all federal and state non-discrimination laws. We ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation for employment for all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.