Field Operations Manager

Greentown Labs, Somerville, Massachusetts, United States

Full time, In-person with extensive travel

Humanity wastes or burns $50 billion worth of recyclable materials every year. Recycling is not broken because people do not care; it is broken because the systems that support it have failed to keep up. rStream is changing that. We're building the technology infrastructure that the waste management industry has never had: smart, autonomous tools that reduce operational friction and make facilities management more efficient and profitable.

We're hiring a Field Operations Manager to own our autonomous sorting systems at customer sites in the field. Our technology only matters if it performs reliably outside the lab, in demanding customer sites. You are the person who makes that happen: deploying systems, keeping them running, troubleshooting problems on the spot, and building trust with everyone from a customer's executive team to the custodial crew on the floor.

This is a role for someone who takes ownership over outcomes, not just assigned tasks. If you’re excited to join an elite team of technologists to deliver world class operations to customers, you’ll thrive here. 

• Own the deployment, onboarding, and day-to-day operation of rStream's autonomous sorting systems at customer sites
• Serve as rStream's primary on-site presence – the face of the company to customers, from their executives to their floor and custodial staff
• Troubleshoot and service the system with the support of the technical team 
• Embody an industrial safety mindset to execute and improve SOPs
• Train and coach on-site operators to run the system confidently and correctly
• De-escalate problems calmly under pressure and keep operations running 
• Plan ahead, manage scheduling, travel plans and time across sites
• Capture customer feedback and identify opportunities to expand rStream's footprint

This is a field-based role requiring extensive, sustained travel. In 2026, the position will involve on-site deployment and operation of rStream's autonomous sorting systems in Tennessee through September and October, followed by deployments at additional sites in November and December (including potential locations in Massachusetts and elsewhere). Travel and time away from home are core, ongoing requirements of the role, and candidates should be prepared for deployments of significant duration. When not at a deployment, candidates should expect to work with the team in-person at Greentown Labs in Somerville, MA.

Required:

• Demonstrated operational excellence with a track record of reliable, consistent execution
• Ownership over outcomes, excellent communication skills across a wide range of audiences, and an industrial safety mindset
• Technical resourcefulness across software, hardware, and basic electrical systems, with proficiency using computers, machines, and hand tools
• Strong time management and planning skills
• Ability to frequently lift and/or move up to 75 pounds, work in small spaces and/or in all climates, and safely operate a motor vehicle
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including 45 hours a week, including weekends
• Willingness to travel for extended periods and to support all types of work, including handling and sorting waste

Preferred:

• Bilingual (strongly preferred, not required)
• 3 years of experience in operations, logistics, or field service management
• Experience operating, maintaining, or troubleshooting industrial equipment, robotics, or automated systems
• Background in field service, manufacturing operations, or a similar operational role
• A "Startup Attitude": quick learner, passionate, nimble, and adaptable

We recognize that there is more to work than the day-to-day responsibilities. In addition to a collaborative, high-performing team environment, we're pleased to offer competitive compensation rates; flexible work hours; and the opportunity to quickly accelerate your learning and growth.

• Medical and dental insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• FTO - Flexible Time Off
• Base salary range for this role: $75k-90k, depending on experience.
• Stock Options - The candidate selected for this role will be recommended for a stock option grant commensurate with the position and the candidate's qualifications.

rStream is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity of thought, access, and experiences. Qualified individuals seeking employment with us are considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, marital status, physical or mental disability, veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law.