Summary

WhiteFox Defense Technologies is a global leader in airspace security, specializing in innovative counter-drone and airspace management solutions. WhiteFox is an expert in developing advanced systems that enable the detection, identification, and mitigation of rogue drones, ensuring safety and security in various environments, from critical infrastructure to public events.

WhiteFox's commitment to advancing drone technology responsibly and ethically positions them as a key player in shaping the future of secure and regulated airspace, reflecting a deep understanding of the evolving landscape of drone threats and airspace management.

Job Description

The Engineering Operations Manager is a skilled, hands-on leader responsible for overseeing and optimizing the production, inventory, and fulfillment of WhiteFox products. This role blends strategic planning with tactical execution, owning the systems and processes that ensure we deliver high-quality products efficiently and reliably.

Working cross-functionally with Product Management, Engineering, and Sales, the Operations Manager is accountable for manufacturing coordination, supply chain and vendor management, inventory oversight, product delivery, and ITAR compliance. They will lead and scale Product Operations through a mix of direct execution and team-building, ensuring operational readiness that aligns with the WhiteFox mission as product demand grows.

Responsibilities: 

Leadership & Team Development

Provide operational leadership while executing directly across core responsibilities.

• Build and manage a high-performing operations team as organizational needs grow.
• Foster a culture of ownership, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Operations Strategy & Execution

• Develop and implement operations processes to support sourcing, inventory, assembly, and fulfillment.
• Manage daily operations and reporting related to inventory levels, production capacity, and delivery timelines.
• Own and optimize manufacturing workflows, work order issuance, and material availability.
• Lead end-to-end operations from planning through final delivery, balancing cost, speed, and quality.

Supply Chain & Vendor Management

• Establish and maintain supplier and vendor relationships; negotiate lead times, terms, and sourcing strategies.
• Forecast production needs in coordination with Product and Sales; ensure timely procurement of components.
• Monitor for end-of-life components and partner with Engineering to identify and implement alternatives.

Technical Operations & Product Familiarity

• Operate within complex product environments involving embedded systems, RF components, electromechanical assemblies, and wiring harnesses.
• Read and interpret BOMs and manufacturing documentation to support accuracy and efficiency throughout the build process.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and internal quality benchmarks.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work with Product, Engineering, Sales Engineering, and Support to align operations with business and customer needs.
• Represent Product Operations in planning discussions and leadership reviews.
• Assist with ITAR processing.

Budget & Risk Management

• Manage operational budgets, allocate resources efficiently, and track key operational metrics.
• Identify and mitigate risks related to production capacity

Qualifications

• Degree in Supply Chain, Industrial Engineering, Business Operations, or related field; Master’s preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, production management, or supply chain leadership.
• Experience working hands-on with ERP/MRP systems, BOMs, and work order processes.
• Strong familiarity with products involving embedded computers, RF components, mechanical systems, and custom electrical assemblies.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead initiatives from concept to execution and grow operational functions over time.
• Personal integrity, operational rigor, and commitment to the WhiteFox mission.
• ITAR experience a plus.

Key Competencies:

• Execution & Ownership – Driven to deliver results through direct action and systems-level thinking.
• Strategic Leadership – Capable of building and scaling operations in line with business growth.
• Technical Acumen – Comfortable navigating complex hardware and manufacturing environments.
• Cross-Functional Influence – Skilled communicator who thrives in collaborative settings.
• Process Optimization – Constantly seeks improvement in workflows, tools, and efficiency.

Compensation

● Competitive salary offered

● Company stock options

● Health, Vision, Dental, Life, and AD&D Insurance

● Unlimited PTO

Location

San Luis Obispo, CA

Direct Apply Only, No Recruiters

Send Resume to: [email protected]

About WhiteFox

WhiteFox Defense Technologies is at the forefront of airspace security, excelling in cutting-edge counter-drone technology and comprehensive airspace management solutions. Renowned for their proficiency in creating advanced systems, WhiteFox specializes in detecting, identifying, and mitigating unauthorized drone activities. Their offerings range from portable and mobile units to fixed site and virtual systems, providing versatile protection for critical infrastructures, public events, and sensitive areas against the escalating threats posed by rogue drones.