Field Operations Specialist

Field Operations Specialist – NODA AI Location: Austin, TX (Hybrid on-site, with up to 50% travel) Clearance Requirement: U.S. Citizen with the ability to obtain a security clearance About NODA NODA is a veteran-owned, venture-backed technology company that is transforming how unmanned systems collaborate in complex, mission-critical environments. We are developing next-generation solutions that enable the autonomous orchestration of heterogeneous unmanned systems across air, sea, land, and space with vital applications in the defense, intelligence, and commercial sectors. Our Field Operations team plays a critical role in bringing our technology to life through the assembly, integration, deployment, and field testing of unmanned systems that directly support mission-critical testing and operations. Joining NODA means working on meaningful technology that pushes the boundaries of autonomy alongside a team that thrives on innovation, rapid iteration, and collaboration. The Role We are seeking a Field Operations Specialist to support field deployments of our autonomous orchestration systems through hands-on technical work and operational coordination. This position combines field technician responsibilities with supervisory duties, requiring you to perform system assembly, integration, and troubleshooting while also supervising field technicians and managing deployment logistics. You'll serve as the primary point of contact for customers regarding field logistics and administrative coordination, ensuring smooth execution of on-site operations while capturing customer feedback to support continuous improvement of our deployment processes. Travel up to 50%—including evenings/weekends during mission-critical events and demonstrations. Key Responsibilities Engage with customers onsite, providing technical guidance and representing NODA professionally. Assist in planning logistics for travel, shipping, and equipment readiness. Build, wire, and test UAS/robotic platforms, payloads, and support equipment. Track, repair, and maintain lab equipment, spare parts, and test assets. Lead setup/teardown and technical troubleshooting at multi-domain field exercises. Conduct inspections to ensure accuracy, durability, and repeatability of assemblies. Maintain a safe, organized, and well-documented lab and field environment. Draft and maintain event-specific documentation: assembly procedures, deployment logs, checklists, and after-action reports (AARs). Oversee junior field staff during operations and ensure smooth team coordination. Required Qualifications U.S. Citizen (required). High school diploma or equivalent; technical certificate, associate degree, or equivalent military/industry experience preferred. 2+ years of hands-on technical experience (assembly, lab, or field environment). Strong organizational skills and experience coordinating logistics or operations. Comfortable working in both lab and outdoor field environments. Ability to lift 60 lbs and work in dynamic field conditions. Preferred Qualifications FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate or ability to rapidly obtain STRONGLY preferred. IPC soldering or electronics certification. Experience leading small teams in technical or field environments. Familiarity with lab management or inventory software. Comfort with scripting, dashboards, or log retrieval tools (e.g., Python, CLI, spreadsheets). Familiarity with project management or collaboration tools (e.g., Jira, Confluence, Notion). Skills & Attributes Strong leadership and communication skills. Quality control mindset with attention to detail. Ability to interact effectively with customers and represent NODA in the field. Independent problem-solving combined with collaborative, team-oriented approach. Comfortable balancing hands-on technical work with operational planning and supervision. What We Offer Hybrid work environment Competitive pay Flexible time off Generous PTO policy Federal holidays Generous health, dental, and vision benefits Free OneMedical membership Growth Path at NODA A successful Field Operations Specialist will have opportunities to expand into leadership or specialized technical roles as NODA scales. Possible paths include: Operations Manager – leading multi-site deployments and overseeing field operations strategy. Test Lead / Operations Coordinator – managing test campaigns, mentoring teams, interfacing with customers. Integration Engineer – focusing on advanced hardware/software integration and system bring-up. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, age, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.