Program Manager & Operations Lead

Program Manager & Operations Lead at Hydronet Program Manager & Operations Lead at Hydronet in Arlington Heights, Massachusetts Posted in 1 day ago.

Type:

full-time

Job Description:

About Hydronet Hydronet is a deep-tech startup developing next-generation, AI-powered and software-defined underwater sensing, communication, networking, and analytics technology. We're on a mission to revolutionize connected underwater intelligence. The Role We're hiring a Program Manager & Operations Lead to be the operational backbone of Hydronet. You'll own the execution of our government and commercial programs - keeping milestones, deliverables, reports, and customer communications on track - while serving as the connective tissue across engineering, leadership, and external stakeholders. You'll also handle the operational glue that keeps a fast-moving deep-tech startup running: from compiling and submitting reports to coordinating documents, schedules, and vendors. This is a high-trust, high-leverage role for someone who likes wearing multiple hats, thrives on bringing structure to ambiguity, and takes pride in making sure nothing falls through the cracks. Responsibilities Program Management Own day-to-day execution of Hydronet's government programs (e.g., SBIR/STTR, DoD, ONR, DARPA, NAVSEA, and other agency contracts) and commercial customer programs. Track program milestones, deliverables, and budgets across multiple parallel efforts; surface risks early and drive them to resolution. Coordinate cross-functional execution across engineering, field operations, and leadership to ensure programs stay on schedule and on scope. Serve as a primary point of contact for contracting officers, customer program managers, and partners. Reporting & Compliance Compile, format, and submit required program reports - including monthly/quarterly progress reports, CDRLs, technical reports, financial reports, and final deliverables. Maintain documentation and records to support contract compliance, audits, and customer reviews. Support proposal preparation for follow-on phases, new contracts, and commercial opportunities. Operational & Executive Support Manage executive-level scheduling, meeting prep, and follow-ups for leadership as needed. Coordinate travel, logistics, and on-site visits for customers, partners, and team deployments. Support vendor management, purchase orders, and light operational coordination. Help build and maintain the internal systems (trackers, dashboards, document repositories) that let a small team punch above its weight. Required Qualifications 4+ years of experience in program management, project management, operations, or a closely related role - preferably in a startup, deep-tech, defense, aerospace, or similarly fast-paced environment. Demonstrated ability to manage multiple programs or workstreams in parallel without dropping balls. Excellent written communication - comfortable producing clear, professional reports, status updates, and customer-facing documents. Strong organizational instincts and close attention to detail; treats deadlines, deliverables, and document quality as a craft. Comfortable operating in a startup environment - adaptable, self-directed, and willing to take on whatever is needed to move the company forward. Strong working proficiency with productivity and collaboration tools (e.g., Microsoft Office / Google Workspace, Jira/Confluence, project trackers, document management). Preferred Qualifications Direct experience supporting U.S. government programs and contracts (SBIR/STTR, DoD, ONR, DARPA, NAVSEA, NOAA, DHS, or similar) - including familiarity with CDRLs, monthly/quarterly reporting, invoicing, and contract compliance. Experience with proposal writing, pricing, or contracts administration. Familiarity with

FAR/DFARS, DCAA

timekeeping, or government contract accounting basics. Experience supporting hardware-heavy or field-deployed programs (e.g., maritime, aerospace, defense electronics). Background as a Chief of Staff, Operations Manager, or senior Executive Assistant in a deep-tech or defense-tech startup. Work Authorization Due to the nature of our current projects, candidates must be U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents (green card holders) .