Operations Lead, Discovery

ABOUT THE TEAM

The Discovery team at Anduril is at the forefront of incubating and maturing high-potential, software-defined, AI-native offerings that meet the toughest, newest challenges across hardware, software, space, and cyber domains. We’re the architects of mission autonomy and mesh networking, delivering scalable hardware solutions that meet some of the most urgent national security needs. By working hand-in-hand with elite teams in Perception, AI, Motion Planning, Hardware, Test Engineering, Space, Networking, and Vehicle hardware, we craft cutting-edge, end-to-end systems that redefine mission success.

ABOUT THE JOB

We are looking for an Operations Lead to join our rapidly growing Discovery team in Washington DC or Costa Mesa, CA. In this role, you will be responsible for partnering across the business to design scalable processes, drive operational excellence, and optimize tools and systems that support our team across all functional areas. You will inform business strategy and deliver data-driven insights that enable revenue generation across the organization. This will require strong analytical skills, a knack for process improvement, and experience working with cross-functional teams. If you are someone who communicates effectively, takes initiative, and thrives in a high-growth, fast changing environment then this role is for you. 

Above all, the Operations Lead must embody a “Whatever It Takes” mindset—executing tasks expediently, scalably, and pragmatically while keeping the mission at the forefront. You must be able to take initiative proactively, manage multiple competing priorities at once, interface professionally with internal and external stakeholders, and work at an exceptionally rapid and demanding pace.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

• Partner cross-functionally with Business Development, Corporate Operations and Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) to develop and refine strategic reporting and planning processes and goals so Anduril can hit aggressive growth targets
• Serve as a trusted advisor on best practices for growth systems (i.e., Salesforce), championing data integrity and governance standards, and supporting growth leads in refining forecasts and business opportunities
• Analyze top-line data to identify business trends, surface insights, and enable informed, data-backed decision, including market analysis, headcount capacity planning, as well as facilities investments.
• Develop business cases for new investment opportunities to meet P&L targets and ensure adequate resourcing
• Own the translation of sales pipeline demand into short- and long-term planning across Operations, People, Production, Real Estate, Corporate Technology, and Finance
• Manage relationships with key customers, partners, and government agencies, ensuring alignment with contractual obligations and stakeholder expectations.
• Prepare program updates, briefs (e.g., schedule, cost, technical), and performance reports for internal and external audiences.
• Maintain status reports, track action items, and ensure critical items are getting done. Engagement with internal leadership team and external stakeholders.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Currently possesses or eligible to immediately obtain an active U.S. Top Secret security clearance.
• Minimum 5-6 years managing complex technical software programs or 5 years in consulting for aerospace and defense.
• Strong technical background with familiarity in systems engineering, software development, and hardware/software integration.
• Proficiency with Agile methodologies and supporting tools.
• Exceptional organizational, presentation, and communication skills.
• Willingness to travel as needed.
• Strong financial and operational analysis.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in startups or small organizations with multiple fast-moving, interdependent programs.
• Familiarity with a defense acquisition processes, compliance, and reporting requirements.
• Experience with developing and operating distributed systems, CI/CD pipelines, APIs, middleware, and modular system architectures.
• Proven ability to lead through influence and collaboration.
• Demonstrated success in a fast-paced, innovative environment.
• Knowledge of military systems and operational tactics.