People Operations Generalist

At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in unmanned aircraft systems. Our team of engineers and innovators is developing cutting-edge autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology - solving complex challenges that matter.

We're building the future of UAS capabilities, and we're looking for exceptional talent to join us. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on next-generation flight systems, you belong here.

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People Operations (HR) Generalist – New Office Launch

We are seeking a People Operations (HR) Generalist to lead the operational setup of our new Midland, Texas office before transitioning into full HR generalist responsibilities. In the initial phase (approximately 3-6 months), you will be responsible for partnering with Headquarters to establish office infrastructure, coordinate vendors, support facility setup, and help ensure operational readiness. Following the facility launch, you will transition to executing key People functions at this location, including employee lifecycle administration, compliance, benefits administration, and other core duties.

With several years of experience spanning both operations and HR, you will serve as the HR operational partner to Zone 5's Texas employees and work to operationalize our HR policies. You will also play a critical role in fostering employee engagement, ensuring compliance, and driving People programs that align with growth. This role requires a blend of tactical execution, project management, and process optimization, providing many opportunities for career growth.

The People Operations Generalist reports to the Head of People and is on-site, full-time, and exempt.

Responsibilities:

Phase 1: Facility Launch (Months 1-6)

• Facility Setup and Operations

• Support CA-based Workplace Operations Manager in onsite office setup including space planning, furniture procurement, IT infrastructure coordination, and vendor management.

• Establish office policies, security protocols, and emergency procedures for the new location in coordination with Heads of Security and Operational Risk Management.

• Partner with HQ People Ops Team to ensure compliance with local regulations and company standards.

• Support Talent Acquisition initiatives onsite.

• Local Onboarding Infrastructure

• Design and implement location-specific onboarding processes and materials.

• Coordinate new hire workspace setup and first-day logistics.

• Serve as primary point of contact for incoming employees during office ramp-up.

Phase 2: HR Generalist Transition (Months 3- beyond)

• Employee Relations and Engagement

• Serve as a trusted advisor to employees and managers on HR policies and workplace concerns.

• Investigate and resolve employee relations issues, ensuring fair and consistent application of policies.

• Drive initiatives to enhance employee engagement and retention at the new office location.

• Compliance and Policy Implementation

• Ensure adherence to federal, state, and local labor laws and company policies, with particular attention to Texas requirements.

• Maintain accurate employee records and assist with HR audits.

• Update and enforce HR policies and procedures as needed for the new location.

• Benefits Administration and Compensation

• Process benefits enrollment, changes, and employee inquiries.

• Support compensation benchmarking with awareness of local market conditions.

• Training and Development

• Facilitate training and onsite development programs.

Qualifications:

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in HR, Business Administration, Operations Management, related field, or equivalent experience.

• 2–5 years of People Operations experience combining HR and operations/project management, preferably in a generalist, coordinator, or PM role.

• Demonstrated experience opening offices, managing facilities, or leading operational projects strongly preferred.

• HR certification (e.g., PHR, SHRM-CP) preferred.

• Experience with any of the following is strongly preferred: start-ups, aerospace, and defense contracting.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong knowledge of Texas employment laws and HR best practices.

• Proven project management skills with ability to manage office setup timelines, budgets, and multiple workstreams (multiple hat-wearer).

• Excellent vendor management and negotiation skills.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with ability to work cross-functionally.

• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.

• Experience with HRIS, ATS, and common HR tech-stack tools.

• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and conflict-resolution skills.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

• Willingness to be hands-on during office setup phase (may include physical setup tasks).

• This position may require up to 10% travel.

Pay range for this role
$90,000—$120,000 USD

What's in it for you:

Benefits:

• Competitive total compensation package

• Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.

• 401k with company-match

• 4 weeks of paid time off each year

• 12 annual company holidays

Why Join Zone 5 Technologies?

• Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.

• Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

• Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be a part of a dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team!

Note about our Texas roles: we are in the process of opening a location on the mid-west side of the DFW metro region. Roles in Texas will initially work remotely and then be expected to be onsite when that location opens in 2026.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. As required by law, we will verify the identity and employment authorization of all new employees using the E-Verify system. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under E-Verify: https://www.e-verify.gov.