Forward Deployed Operations Specialist

WindBorne Systems is supercharging weather models with a unique proprietary data source: constellations of next-generation smart weather balloons targeting the most critical atmospheric data. We then combine that unique data source with the world’s most accurate AI weather models. Our long-term vision is to eliminate weather uncertainty, and in the process help humanity adapt to climate change, be that predicting hurricanes or speeding the adoption of renewables. The founding team of Stanford engineers was named Forbes 2019 30 under 30 and is backed by top investors, including Khosla Ventures.


WindBorne is seeking a highly motivated and adaptable forward-deployed operations specialist to spearhead the expansion of our weather balloon launch site network across the globe. This role requires someone at the center of a highly varied Venn diagram that includes hands-on competence, initiating complex logistics relationships, being a cultural chameleon, and the ability to manage extremely dynamic projects.

Responsibilities: As the Forward Deployed Operations Specialist, you will be at the forefront of expanding our presence into new territories, with a primary focus on establishing weather balloon launch sites in foreign countries. Your role will be to support our Head of International Growth in executing pilots internationally by managing logistics and on-the-ground execution of 1 - 3 week international pilots. Your job may be calling gas suppliers across South America one week, and then heading to Fiji with 100 lbs of equipment to run a pilot the next. From securing customs approvals to finding launch sites and building rigs on the ground, you will play a vital role in taking our coverage worldwide.

Qualifications: We are seeking a candidate with a strong background in international operations or project management, coupled with a passion for innovation and travel, and a willingness to tackle new challenges head-on.

• Excellent communication and negotiation skills are essential, along with the ability to work independently and adapt to diverse cultural environments.

• Experience with logistics and operations — wrangling vendors, navigating local rules and regulations, and setting things up through inventive solutions to make the vision a reality

• While prior experience in weather balloon operations is not required, a general technical aptitude and mechanical competency will be advantageous.

• Willingness and availability to travel internationally at least five months out of the year.

  • Must possess a valid passport with visa-free access to 182+ countries globally and a strong consular support network, due to extensive deployment to remote international locations. Check Here

  • ++ Can drive manual transmission cars and trucks

• Proficiency in multiple languages or the ability to learn new languages quickly would be a significant asset, especially French and/or Spanish.

• Most importantly, we are looking for someone who shares our commitment to advancing the field of weather forecasting and atmospheric research and is eager to make a meaningful impact on a global scale.

Essential Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and carry equipment weighing up to 75 pounds from ground level to truck bed height (uneven weight)

• Ability to lift equipment weighing up to 40 pounds to overhead storage compartments (uneven weight)

• Ability to work outdoors in a wide range of weather conditions for extended periods

• Physical stamina to perform manual labor in remote field locations without assistance

• Ability to perform these functions safely and without risk of injury to self or others

These physical requirements are essential job functions that cannot be performed with reasonable accommodations due to the remote field deployment nature of this position.

Who are you?

• You’re looking to rack up stamps in your passport and aren’t afraid of adventure – challenges are a feature, not a bug.

• You have grit and are willing to go the extra mile to complete your objective. You do’t take no for an answer, and find the cleverest way to get something done.

• Adaptable under pressure — nothing rattles you, whether it’s a customs holdup, a broken part, or an incoming typhoon. You plan ahead, but you’re ready to improvise.

• A natural people-person — you build rapport quickly, put others at ease, and inspire them to work with you to make things happen.

Where will we go?

Everywhere!

Here’s where we’ve been in the past year: Australia, Guam, Japan, Reunion Island, Kenya, Vienna, US (OK, LA, WA, MA, FL, HI, NH)

Here’s a partial list where we want to run pilots and/or set up sites in the next 18 months: Uruguay, Argentina, Fiji, Iceland, St Helena Island (UK), the Philippines, Suriname, New Zealand, French Caledonia, and Antarctica.

Benefits

• 401(k)

• Dental insurance

• Health insurance

• Vision insurance

• Unlimited PTO

• Stock Option Plan

• Office food and beverages

Salary

• $70,000-$100,000*We are considering a range of backgrounds and experience levels for this position and will adjust our offers accordingly to be competitive with market rates.

Location

• Palo Alto, CA, In person required.