Project Manager, Operations Manager

PROJECT MANAGER

Location:
Bingen, WA

Full Time, On-site

Zepher Flight Laboratories, Inc. (ZFL) is an engineering and manufacturing company focused on the development of uncrewed and autonomous aerial vehicles (UAVs). ZFL’s mission is to enable the widespread use of drones by creating products that can scale in both manufacturing and operations.

Zepher Flight Laboratories, Inc. (ZFL) is developing the “Z1”, a 55 pound, 14-foot span VTOL drone that is powered by hydrogen fuel cells. ZFL received a government contract in 2020 to create the Z1 prototype, and a second contract in 2022 to productize and deliver test articles to the U.S. Military. ZFL relies upon engineers, technicians, and operators who are able and willing to make this next phase of the program a success.

ZFL employees must have a good combination of skill, industry knowledge, curiosity, and drive to solve problems effectively and quickly.

The Project Manager supports all phases of contracting, proposals, and project execution. They also partner closely with engineering on design and development work. This role independently manages projects or major project components, guiding ZFL teams toward contractual and self-determined deliverables by tracking budgets, resources, timelines, and deliverables. The Project Manager contributes to operational excellence and collaborates closely with engineering, operations, and subcontractors to ensure project success.

This position requires adaptability under pressure, proactive problem-solving, and a commitment to continuous improvement. This role applies strategic thinking at the project level and leverages tools such as process automation, data-driven decision-making, and risk awareness to improve project outcomes.

• Track Project Finances: Track and report on budgets for assigned projects. Support compliance with budget allocations and flag potential cost overruns to leadership. Coordinate with the Engineering Director and Director of Programs on purchase requests and budget reviews.
• Manage Projects: Lead day-to-day planning and execution for assigned projects. Provide regular status updates, track deliverables, and help coordinate actions with the Technical Program Manager and project team. Ensure projects stay on schedule and within scope.
• Manage Information: Maintain accurate project documentation, schedules, and status tools (budget, actions, deliverables, risks). Support tool development in coordination with engineering, operations, and supply chain.
• Monitor Project Performance: Track progress against objectives and milestones, escalating issues and recommending adjustments to support project success.
• Support Proposals: Assist with proposal development, including data gathering, planning, budgeting, and close-out activities. Contribute to lessons learned and best practices.
• Communicate Effectively: Foster clear communication across internal teams, subcontractors, and stakeholders to maintain alignment on project goals.
• Contribute to Process Improvement: Recommend and adopt improvements to increase efficiency, consistency, and quality in project execution.
• Ensure Compliance and Safety: Follow industry standards, regulations, and safety guidelines in all activities.

• Experience: 4–8 years of project management or related experience (engineering, operations, or manufacturing).
• Education: BA/BS degree or equivalent experience.
• Technical
  
  Skills:
  
  Strong understanding of project execution, scheduling, and financial tracking; familiarity with UAV technology and engineering; and experience building and maintaining integrated project schedules and reports (MS Project or similar).
• Problem-Solving: Solid analytical and problem-solving skills with a commitment to operational excellence and continuous improvement.
• Communication: Clear and effective written, verbal, and presentation skills.
• Interpersonal
  
  Skills:
  
  Ability to collaborate effectively across teams and maintain positive relationships with customers, suppliers, and coworkers.
• Initiative: Proactive in identifying and resolving issues to ensure successful project completion.
• Adaptability: Co…