Chief Operating Officer (COO) Startup

NAVXCOM is a space technology company developing advanced navigation, communication, and computing infrastructure for lunar, martian, and deep-space missions. Our mission is to enable reliable, secure, and cost-effective space operations while supporting government and commercial customers across the space domain.

NAVXCOM is seeking a highly disciplined and strategic Chief Operating Officer (COO) to drive the company’s operational execution, business strategy, and government contracting growth. This role is the "bridge" between our technical innovation and business reality. You will be responsible for establishing the operational infrastructure, managing government proposal processes, and ensuring the company hits the critical milestones required to secure major funding.

Note: This position is currently unpaid until funding is secured. High-value equity compensation is provided as a Co-Founder/Executive level partner.

• Operational Strategy & Execution: Translate executive vision and technical goals into actionable business plans; oversee day-to-day operations to ensure maximum efficiency in a resource-constrained environment.
• Government Contracting & Compliance: Lead the administrative side of government engagement, ensuring full compliance with FAR/DFARS, export controls (EAR/ITAR), and facility security requirements.
• Proposal Management: Drive the capture management and proposal development process for government solicitations (SBIR/STTR, BAAs, etc.), coordinating with the CTO on technical inputs.
• Financial & Resource Oversight: Manage early-stage burn rates, assist in financial modeling for investors, and oversee resource allocation to align with critical path milestones.
• Partnerships & Supply Chain: Build and manage relationships with strategic partners, sub-contractors, and vendors essential to space system development.
• Organizational Growth: Establish HR policies, recruiting strategies, and company culture frameworks to prepare for rapid scaling post-funding.
• Stakeholder Management: Serve as a key interface for investors, government program managers, and commercial partners alongside the CEO.

• Compensation: No salary initially (unpaid until funding is secured).
• Equity: 5% equity in NAVXCOM at no cost, vested over 4 years (terms customizable based on experience).
• Hours: No fixed schedule until funds are secured; output-driven.
• Location: Currently fully remote. Must be able to commute daily to the Denver area office after securing funds.
• Commitment: Must be available to contribute meaningfully toward achieving preliminary business and funding milestones.

• Strategic Impact: Architect the operational machine that will power deep-space missions.
• Ownership: Significant equity ownership and a seat at the executive table.
• Mission: Direct involvement in securing the future of American space operations.
• Growth: A high-impact role with the potential to scale into a major industry leadership position.
  

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, or a related field (required).
• Experience: 10 years of experience in operations, program management, or business development within the aerospace, defense, or space sectors.
• Citizenship & Clearance: U.S. citizen with an active TS security clearance or the clear eligibility/ability to obtain one immediately.
• GovCon Expertise: Demonstrated understanding of the US Government acquisition cycle, proposal processes, and compliance requirements.
• Leadership: Proven experience scaling teams or managing complex programs in high-stakes environments.
• Startup Grit: Strong entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to operate independently in a remote, pre-seed startup environment.

• Agency Experience: Direct experience interacting with NASA, U.S. Space Force, U.S. Air Force, or the intelligence community.
• Advanced Education: MBA or Master’s in a related field is highly preferred.
• Domain Knowledge: Familiarity with the commercial space landscape (NewSpace) and satellite/deep-space infrastructure markets.
• Veterans: Veterans are a top priority for NAVXCOM.
• Track Record: History of successful fundraising support or winning government contracts/grants.