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Operational Chief of Staff
LiquidPistonBloomfield, United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 23 Jul 2025
About the role
About LiquidPiston
LiquidPiston is a fast-paced, innovative company developing compact, efficient rotary engines based on a fundamentally new thermodynamic cycle. We're solving some of the most challenging problems in energy and mobility – and we're looking for team members who thrive in a high-impact, hands-on environment.
Position Overview
We’re seeking a highly capable and adaptable Operational Chief of Staff to serve as a strategic right-hand to the executive team, overseeing and streamlining daily operations across key business functions. This is a pivotal role for someone who can lead cross-functional initiatives, drive operational efficiency, and dive into the details when needed.
You’ll be expected to wear many hats – overseeing operations, finance, procurement, legal, IT, facilities, HR and supporting manufacturing functions when needed. The ideal candidate brings a strong bias for action, thrives in a small company (under 100 people), and has experience working closely with leadership to make the business run smoother, smarter and faster.
Key Responsibilities
LiquidPiston is a fast-paced, innovative company developing compact, efficient rotary engines based on a fundamentally new thermodynamic cycle. We're solving some of the most challenging problems in energy and mobility – and we're looking for team members who thrive in a high-impact, hands-on environment.
Position Overview
We’re seeking a highly capable and adaptable Operational Chief of Staff to serve as a strategic right-hand to the executive team, overseeing and streamlining daily operations across key business functions. This is a pivotal role for someone who can lead cross-functional initiatives, drive operational efficiency, and dive into the details when needed.
You’ll be expected to wear many hats – overseeing operations, finance, procurement, legal, IT, facilities, HR and supporting manufacturing functions when needed. The ideal candidate brings a strong bias for action, thrives in a small company (under 100 people), and has experience working closely with leadership to make the business run smoother, smarter and faster.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational Oversight: Coordinate and optimize day-to-day internal operations across departments including procurement, IT, facilities, and general administration.
- Finance & Legal Coordination: Support budgeting and cost control processes; review contracts, vendor agreements, and support compliance across departments.
- Cross-Functional Leadership: Serve as a liaison between executive leadership and department heads to ensure alignment and accountability.
- Machine Shop & Facility Understanding: Collaborate with the engineering/manufacturing teams to understand and support operational needs of the shop floor.
- Procurement & Vendor Management: Manage supplier relationships and procurement processes for efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
- Project Execution: Lead or support internal strategic projects and initiatives from idea to implementation.
- Process Improvement: Identify bottlenecks and implement streamlined systems and workflows to increase organizational efficiency.
- Technology & IT Systems: Oversee or coordinate IT needs including infrastructure, software, and hardware procurement and support.
- Facilities Management: Ensure the physical environment supports employee productivity and safety.
- 7+ years of experience in operations, general management, or business administration, ideally in a startup or small company setting (<100 employees).
- Proven experience managing or coordinating across multiple business functions (e.g., finance, IT, HR, legal, procurement).
- Strong working knowledge of reviewing business contracts, vendor agreements, and operational compliance.
- Comfortable in both office and industrial environments – you understand how things work on the shop floor.
- Demonstrated experience implementing operational systems and improving business processes.
- Exceptional communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
- Highly self-directed with a strong sense of ownership and urgency.
- Bachelor’s degree in business, or a related field (MBA or advanced degree is a plus).
- Flexible PTO: We value work-life balance and encourage time to rest and recharge.
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