Program Manager & Operations Lead

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).