Head of Mission Readiness - Connected Warfare

Overview

Based in Costa Mesa, CA, this position is with a leading defense technology firm focused on modernizing military capabilities through cutting-edge innovations including AI and autonomy. The Head of Mission Readiness for Connected Warfare will lead and formalize logistics support functions essential for deploying and sustaining hardware within government and defense environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all Integrated Logistics Support activities across projects, ensuring process adherence, technical oversight, budget control, and best practice implementation.
• Build and scale the Integrated Logistics Support program from inception to successful operation within aggressive deadlines.
• Establish and maintain logistics systems and standards to enable accurate and efficient management of logistics operations.
• Lead recruitment, training, and management of a skilled logistics team.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality assurance, and program management teams to align and achieve logistics objectives.
• Develop comprehensive logistics strategies and plans to meet timely delivery of program requirements.
• Partner with engineering on design criteria and integration efforts for new products.
• Contribute to the preparation and negotiation of proposals, business plans, contracts, and budgets.
• Address operational challenges proactively by engaging relevant teams and stakeholders.
• Maintain clear and effective communication channels across all involved parties to keep updates on goals and progress.
• Adopt a hands-on approach in a fast-paced, startup-like environment, supporting the organization wherever needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, business, or a related discipline.
• Over ten years of progressive experience in Department of Defense or government logistics, program administration, operations, manufacturing engineering, or supply chain, including leadership experience.
• Strong expertise in logistics management principles, planning, and coordination with proven leadership capabilities.
• Eligible for and capable of maintaining an active U.S. Secret security clearance.
• Willingness to travel as required.
• Must be local or willing to relocate to Costa Mesa, California.

Preferred Experience

• In-depth knowledge of DoD and government regulatory standards, especially relating to aircraft logistics.
• Experience with Air Force or other military branch Integrated Logistics operations.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal abilities.
• Proven success working cross-functionally and within unstructured environments; start-up experience is advantageous.
• Strong results-driven mindset with capability to lead initiatives from concept to execution.
• Demonstrated ability to independently manage projects through all phases.
• Ability to move quickly, maintain a positive outlook, and lead both directly and via influence.
• Experience with government proposals is desirable.

Compensation and Benefits

The base salary for this role ranges from $219,000 to $290,000 USD annually, reflective of experience and qualifications. Offers typically include significant equity grants as part of the overall compensation package. The company provides comprehensive benefits that support employee health, wellness, and recovery at minimal or no cost.

Additional Information: Security and Data Privacy

Candidates should be aware of recruitment scams and fraudulent activities impersonating company representatives. No payments or sensitive financial information will be requested during the hiring process. Authentic communication will only come from official company email domains. Suspected scams should be reported promptly.

Applicants consent to background checks and integrity screenings conducted by third party services as part of the hiring process.