What are the responsibilities and job description for the Operations Associate position at Vatn Systems?
At Vatn Systems, we are building the next underwater autonomy prime, starting with next-generation Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) and a collaborative software platform for sea exploration and modern defense missions. Our AUVs integrate complex electro-mechanical systems, precision sensors, and advanced software to perform in the harshest marine environments.
Position Overview:
We’re looking for an Operations Associate who’s ready to jump into a fast-moving hardware startup and help keep everything running smoothly—from supporting our build and test operations to assisting with day-to-day logistics. This role is great for someone who’s organized, hands-on, and comfortable splitting time between the office, the manufacturing floor, and the water.
You’ll help keep projects on track, coordinate across teams, move materials and equipment between facilities, assist with boat and water-based operations, and support the practical needs of a growing company. This role is for someone who can adapt quickly, communicate clearly, and isn’t afraid to roll up their sleeves.
Key Responsibilities
- Help track progress across multiple active projects and update internal dashboards and tools.
- Support meeting prep, scheduling, note-taking, and follow-up on action items.
- Coordinate workflows between engineering, manufacturing, and leadership.
- Assist with materials management—inventory accuracy, procurement coordination, and organizing parts.
- Support receiving/shipping, vendor coordination, and scheduling pickups or deliveries.
- Help move equipment and materials between our Bristol and Tiverton facilities.
- Assist with loading/unloading gear and safely lifting or transporting materials when needed.
- Support on-water testing days, including prepping gear, assisting with boat operations, and helping transport equipment to/from the dock.
- Maintain documentation, SOPs, and simple operational workflows.
- Identify small operational issues and propose practical improvements.
- Help with quality checks, data collection, and general compliance documentation.
- Assist in planning demos, customer visits, and internal events.
Qualifications:
- 1–5 years of experience in operations, supply chain, project coordination, marine operations, or hardware/manufacturing support.
- Bachelor’s degree preferred, but equivalent hands-on experience is also welcome.
- Strong organizational and communication skills.
- Comfortable in fast-changing environments and able to pivot quickly.
- A proactive, practical problem-solver who enjoys being part of a hands-on team.
- Comfortable working around boats, tools, and physical equipment (training provided).
- Familiarity with Google Suite, Microsoft Office, and project-tracking tools (Jira, etc.).
- Interest in marine technology, boats, hardware development, or defense/marine systems is a plus.
Vatn is an equal opportunity employer, and we welcome candidates from all backgrounds to apply. We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially having you join our team in shaping the future of autonomous underwater exploration.