Chief of Mission Operations na Sceye

Chief of Mission Operations

Status: Full Time, Exempt

Location: Moriarty, NM 
Reports To: CEO

Who Are We:

Sceye a high-growth technology company, building the next generation of instant communications, imaging and remote sensing infrastructure through stratospheric platforms.

Our lighter-than-air high-altitude platform systems (LTA HAPS) are capable of maintaining position over an operational area in the stratosphere (altitudes of 18 – 21km). They can carry multiple telecommunications, imaging and remote sensing payloads, providing unique functionality, cost, environmental and societal advantages.

Our HAPS be deployed in a matter of days and at a fraction of the cost of traditional infrastructure solutions. This makes them an ideal solution for providing telecommunications connectivity, emergency solutions in the event of natural or other disasters, environmental and infrastructure monitoring, Earth observation and a range of defense applications. 

Our customers & partners include some of the largest global telecommunications companies, infrastructure operators, climate researchers, civil and defense agencies. 

At Sceye, we aim high, and we want you to join us at the stratospheric edge of innovation. As part of our mission-driven team, you’ll contribute to building breakthrough technologies that are changing the way we connect and observe the world. We are looking for individuals who bring not only deep expertise but also bold vision and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

About the Position:

The Chief of Mission Operations will oversee all aspects of Sceye’s flight and ground operations, ensuring missions are conducted safely, successfully, and in full compliance with aviation regulations and company standards. Reporting directly to the CEO and serving on the executive team, this leader will develop CONOPS based on customer and vehicle requirements, manage the recruitment and training of operational teams, and establish best-in-class procedures, certifications, and safety practices. The role is also responsible for mission readiness, including equipment and software validation, budget and schedule oversight, regulatory compliance, and customer relationships, while driving continuous improvement in operational excellence and safety. 

What You’ll Do

• Lead and Manage Mission Operations: Oversee mission planning, flight execution, and test operations to ensure optimal performance, safety, and regulatory compliance. Provide leadership, mentorship, and technical direction to a multi-disciplinary mission team. Manage the recruitment, training and development of all operational employees and teams including flight, launch and recovery. Establish and oversee the operational budget, to ensure adequate resources are in place for the proposed operational activities.
• Develop and Implement Operational Strategies: Innovate and/or improve operational processes and best practices to enhance mission reliability and efficiency in high-altitude platform system (HAPS) operations. Drive the continuous evolution of flight and flight test operations through the application of advanced technologies, data analytics, and lessons learned from previous missions.
• Regulatory Compliance & Safety Oversight: Ensure all flight and flight test operations comply with FAA regulations, industry standards, and internal safety protocols. As the accountable executive, oversee flight and ground operations risk assessments and mitigation strategies.
• Emergency and Contingency Planning: Oversee emergency response protocols, ensuring the team is well-prepared for in-flight anomalies and mission-critical decisions.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work in sync-step with engineering, payload, finance, and safety teams to integrate new technologies and methodologies into mission operations.
• Stakeholder Communication & Reporting: Provide strategic updates, mission operations organization briefings, and performance reports to the executive leadership and Board of Directors. Oversee client relationships with all customers who interface with operational missions.

What We’re Looking For: 

• Education & Training
  • Bachelor's degree in aerospace, mechanical, electrical engineering, or a physical science. Test Pilot School graduate is preferred.

Technical Expertise: 

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to design and implement scalable operational frameworks that support Sceye’s mission objectives.
• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment and drive forward-thinking solutions for mission success.
• Experience
• Minimum 15 years in aviation, aerospace, or high-altitude platforms with direct mission/flight operations experience.
• Proven leadership of large, multidisciplinary operational teams (flight crews, ground crews, launch & recovery, engineering support).
• Demonstrated success in developing and executing CONOPS (Concept of Operations) for complex missions.
• Strong knowledge of airspace management, FAA and international aviation regulations, risk assessment, and high-altitude operations.
• Track record of managing operational budgets, schedules, and resources at the executive level.
• Technical/Operational Competence
• Deep understanding of flight safety standards, risk management, and accident/incident investigations.
• Experience managing flight test campaigns, mission readiness reviews, and operational certifications.
• Familiarity with high-altitude, unmanned, or experimental flight systems.
• Strong knowledge of aviation systems integration, ground support equipment, and mission-critical software/hardware.
• Leadership & Management
• Proven ability to recruit, train, and develop operational teams.
• Executive-level communication skills, with experience managing client and stakeholder relationships.
• Demonstrated ability to establish operational standards, policies, and safety culture in a growing organization.

What We Offer:

At Sceye, we’re building more than high-altitude platforms—we’re building a workplace where people (and their pups) thrive. Here’s what you’ll enjoy:

• Chef-Prepared Lunches – Fresh, onsite meals to keep you fueled and focused.
• Snacks & Refreshments – Enjoy a variety of snacks and drinks available throughout the day.
• Wellness Perks – Access to a gym, pickleball court, and an outdoor dog kennel.
• Dog-Friendly Environment – Bring your four-legged friends to work and enjoy a pet-welcoming space.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage – Medical, dental, vision, and disability insurance, with over 82% of premiums covered—and 100% for everything else.
• 401(k) with Match – Company contributions that are yours from day one.
• High-Performance Culture – Join a collaborative, inclusive environment where your work helps shape the future of aerospace.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Sceye is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, especially those who bring unique perspectives and experiences that can help us grow and innovate. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact us—we’re happy to assist.