Operations Deployment Specialist

Follow this link to apply.

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, adventure seeking, and adaptable Operations Deployment 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 technical competency, regulatory processing capability, being a cultural chameleon, and the ability to manage extremely dynamic projects. 

Image of a WindBorne balloon
Map of hundreds of WindBorne's flights, covering the entire northern hemisphere
A balloon + flight paths from over 600 flights conducted by WindBorne

We're dedicated to both mitigating climate change and helping humanity adapt to its effects as fast as possible, and you can be a part of our mission to make this global societal impact. If you like the idea of working on cutting edge technology, and working with a fast moving team, WindBorne is the place for you.

Responsibilities

  • New Site Setup: This entails everything from determining the best region for the launch site, to negotiating land rental agreements, and facilitating the physical buildup of the site. Much of this is needed to do in person and thus the expectation is that this role will have 50%+ necessary travel.

  • Hiring and Training: You’ll be responsible for figuring out how to tap into the local employment market, finding the right person for the role in each location, and training them to be as independent as possible and own their local site’s operations. 

  • Compliance: Ensuring that local aviation, gas storage, and employment laws are known and adhered to. 

  • Supply Chain: It will be imperative for you to find and create strong relationships with local vendors for services such as import/export, compressed gas supply, and local logistics.

  • Business Administration: Each site will need to operate within the local business economy. It is your responsibility to register a local business, create a local bank account, and establish local accounting services.

Skills and Qualifications

We are seeking a candidate with a strong background in engineering (mechanical preferred) or project management, coupled with a passion for innovation 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. The ability to simultaneously manage a wide set of deliverables across different domains is crucial. Prior experience in weather balloon operations is not required. Additionally, proficiency in multiple languages or the ability to learn new languages quickly would be a significant asset, facilitating effective communication and collaboration in our global operations. 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.

Benefits

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Unlimited PTO
  • Stock Option Plan
  • Office food and beverages

Location

Address: 858 San Antonio Rd, Palo Alto, CA.

In person strongly preferred.

What our hardware looks like

Closeup of a WindBorne balloon
Launch rig
Photos taken in Svalbard, Norway, 78°N

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