Firestorm
Who We Are
At Firestorm, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower the U.S. and ally nations to effectively deter aggressors – regardless of their defense budget – through innovative, cost-effective technologies. We call this vision “democratized deterrence.” As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we’re pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators. By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we’re pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world-class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all our partners.
About The Role
As Chief of Staff to the Chief Technical Officer (CTO), you will serve in a critical, high-trust, and strategic role supporting the Co-Founder and CTO across a range of responsibilities. You will help ensure alignment, execution, and momentum on the company’s technical priorities, spanning advanced additive manufacturing, autonomy, hardware, product, and software. You are proactive, anticipate needs, translate ideas into action, remove obstacles, and help drive communication and decision-making processes across the company's largest and most complex organization.
You are exceptionally organized, skilled at creating clear and compelling presentations, meticulous about grammar, and someone who steps in to fill gaps without hesitation. This position demands the highest levels of professionalism, discretion, and adaptability within the intense, fast-paced environment of a cutting-edge hard tech startup. This role is ideal for someone with a strong technical foundation and intuition, strategic thinking ability, and a talent for synthesizing information, setting priorities, and driving execution across a complex organization. You operate equally well as an advisor and an operator, maintaining a mission-first mindset, a low ego, and the resilience needed to support a fast-moving organization.
This role will help ensure that critical work stays on track, manage high-level executive engagements with poise, and position the CTO for success in every setting. As a key point of contact for executive communication, you will help coordinate across leadership, employees, customers, partners, and other external stakeholders. As the CTO’s trusted partner, you will provide operational and strategic support to keep them focused, prepared, and empowered to lead effectively.
What You’ll Do
Executive and Strategic Enablement
Act as a disciplined, strategic partner to the CTO, translating their vision into plans and cross-functional execution across advanced additive manufacturing, autonomy, hardware, product, and software teams. Provide high-level administrative support to the CTO, including managing schedules, meetings, and travel arrangements. Act as a primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders on all matters pertaining to the CTO. Lead and manage special projects as assigned by the CTO, ensuring timely completion and alignment with company goals. Prepare meeting agendas, briefing materials, slide decks, and meeting notes for internal reviews, customer engagements, and strategic sessions. Attend key meetings to ensure all documentation is readily available, ensuring action items are accurately captured and tracked. Plan and manage executive travel, including engagement planning & execution, flights, secure lodging, ground transportation and detailed itineraries. Handle expense reporting, track executive expenses and reimbursements, logistical planning, and day-to-day operations with accuracy, discretion, and efficiency.
Operational Excellence
Manage and drive the CTO’s operating rhythm, translating vision into execution through effective coordination of leadership team meetings, design reviews, executive check-ins, customer briefings, off-sites, and other key engagements. Monitor high-impact initiatives, identify blockers, and proactively resolve issues to keep teams moving and aligned. Support ongoing initiatives by tracking action items, deadlines, and key deliverables, while coordinating cross-functional efforts to ensure timely execution and maintaining clear, consistent communication on progress. Represent the Office of the CTO in meetings and working sessions, escalating issues when needed and synthesizing outcomes into actionable follow-ups. Own scheduling and help create calendar order out of chaos for the CTO, ensuring zero scheduling issues with internal or external contacts.
Communication and Collaboration
Serve as an information hub between the CTO and engineering, product, operations, and external stakeholders. Ensure communication flow is clear, timely, and effective, from internal technical updates to strategic briefings. Draft, edit, and produce high-quality communications and materials, including professional emails, memos, board- and partner-facing content, Department of Defense (DoD) presentations, internal reviews, public statements, and cross-functional updates. Handle personal and proprietary information with discretion and maintain the highest level of confidentiality.
People and Culture Enablement
Support hiring, onboarding, and team structuring for the technical organization. Drive culture-building efforts within the technical org, ensuring values alignment, high performance, and transparency. Help establish scalable processes for engineering collaboration, documentation, and innovation. Support with additional tasks and strategic initiatives as assigned, assume other responsibilities as they arise in alignment with evolving team priorities and organizational goals, and contribute to related efforts that drive departmental effectiveness.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Business or a related technical field Minimum of 5 years of experience as an executive assistant or in a similar role in technical project management, operations, strategy, or consulting, preferably in a high-growth, tech-centric environment 3+ years of experience supporting a senior executive, preferably at the C-level Incredible organizational, multitasking, and time management skills Demonstrated ability to manage shifting priorities with stoicism and professionalism Able to operate with both urgency and patience in a fast-paced, ambiguous environment Experience coordinating executive-level travel, communications, and logistics Impeccable judgment, discretion, and trustworthiness with personal and confidential information Strong emotional intelligence and a collaborative, low-ego approach, to building relationships across all levels The ability to anticipate needs and solve problems before they surface; a “no task too small” attitude paired with ownership of high-priority deliverables High proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Outlook, Teams, PowerPoint, Word and Excel Exceptional written and verbal communication skills Must be able to lift up to 30 lbs. Willingness & ability to travel for event preparation or support operational tasks U.S. Citizenship required & the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance.
Preferred Qualifications
Master's degree in engineering, a MBA, or a related technical field. Previous experience in a venture-backed aerospace, defense, or hard tech company, particularly within a hyper-growth startup, enterprise technology environment, or fast-paced consulting firm. Experience working within or supporting DoD, military programs, dual-use technologies or complex R&D environments Experience working with cross-functional teams, external partners, government agencies, and senior stakeholders A steady, proactive presence in a dynamic, high-pressure environment Commitment to the mission, supporting the CTO so they can focus on advancing critical objectives Deep understanding of technology org dynamics; familiarity with software engineering or product development environments is a plus
Work Environment
This role is an on-site position at Firestorm HQ with up to 30% travel alongside, in preparation, or on behalf of the CTO.
Compensation
U.S. Salary Range: $115,000 - $145,000 USD
The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.
Benefits & Perks
Benefits
Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:
We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals Unlimited PTO Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in December Generous Parental Leave FSA HSA Hospital Indemnity insurance Critical Illness insurance Accident insurance Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm.Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family. Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.
ITAR Compliance
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.
Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us atcareers@launchfirestorm.comso we can provide the support you need.
PI276050012 #J-18808-Ljbffr
At Firestorm, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower the U.S. and ally nations to effectively deter aggressors – regardless of their defense budget – through innovative, cost-effective technologies. We call this vision “democratized deterrence.” As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we’re pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators. By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we’re pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world-class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all our partners.
About The Role
As Chief of Staff to the Chief Technical Officer (CTO), you will serve in a critical, high-trust, and strategic role supporting the Co-Founder and CTO across a range of responsibilities. You will help ensure alignment, execution, and momentum on the company’s technical priorities, spanning advanced additive manufacturing, autonomy, hardware, product, and software. You are proactive, anticipate needs, translate ideas into action, remove obstacles, and help drive communication and decision-making processes across the company's largest and most complex organization.
You are exceptionally organized, skilled at creating clear and compelling presentations, meticulous about grammar, and someone who steps in to fill gaps without hesitation. This position demands the highest levels of professionalism, discretion, and adaptability within the intense, fast-paced environment of a cutting-edge hard tech startup. This role is ideal for someone with a strong technical foundation and intuition, strategic thinking ability, and a talent for synthesizing information, setting priorities, and driving execution across a complex organization. You operate equally well as an advisor and an operator, maintaining a mission-first mindset, a low ego, and the resilience needed to support a fast-moving organization.
This role will help ensure that critical work stays on track, manage high-level executive engagements with poise, and position the CTO for success in every setting. As a key point of contact for executive communication, you will help coordinate across leadership, employees, customers, partners, and other external stakeholders. As the CTO’s trusted partner, you will provide operational and strategic support to keep them focused, prepared, and empowered to lead effectively.
What You’ll Do
Executive and Strategic Enablement
Act as a disciplined, strategic partner to the CTO, translating their vision into plans and cross-functional execution across advanced additive manufacturing, autonomy, hardware, product, and software teams. Provide high-level administrative support to the CTO, including managing schedules, meetings, and travel arrangements. Act as a primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders on all matters pertaining to the CTO. Lead and manage special projects as assigned by the CTO, ensuring timely completion and alignment with company goals. Prepare meeting agendas, briefing materials, slide decks, and meeting notes for internal reviews, customer engagements, and strategic sessions. Attend key meetings to ensure all documentation is readily available, ensuring action items are accurately captured and tracked. Plan and manage executive travel, including engagement planning & execution, flights, secure lodging, ground transportation and detailed itineraries. Handle expense reporting, track executive expenses and reimbursements, logistical planning, and day-to-day operations with accuracy, discretion, and efficiency.
Operational Excellence
Manage and drive the CTO’s operating rhythm, translating vision into execution through effective coordination of leadership team meetings, design reviews, executive check-ins, customer briefings, off-sites, and other key engagements. Monitor high-impact initiatives, identify blockers, and proactively resolve issues to keep teams moving and aligned. Support ongoing initiatives by tracking action items, deadlines, and key deliverables, while coordinating cross-functional efforts to ensure timely execution and maintaining clear, consistent communication on progress. Represent the Office of the CTO in meetings and working sessions, escalating issues when needed and synthesizing outcomes into actionable follow-ups. Own scheduling and help create calendar order out of chaos for the CTO, ensuring zero scheduling issues with internal or external contacts.
Communication and Collaboration
Serve as an information hub between the CTO and engineering, product, operations, and external stakeholders. Ensure communication flow is clear, timely, and effective, from internal technical updates to strategic briefings. Draft, edit, and produce high-quality communications and materials, including professional emails, memos, board- and partner-facing content, Department of Defense (DoD) presentations, internal reviews, public statements, and cross-functional updates. Handle personal and proprietary information with discretion and maintain the highest level of confidentiality.
People and Culture Enablement
Support hiring, onboarding, and team structuring for the technical organization. Drive culture-building efforts within the technical org, ensuring values alignment, high performance, and transparency. Help establish scalable processes for engineering collaboration, documentation, and innovation. Support with additional tasks and strategic initiatives as assigned, assume other responsibilities as they arise in alignment with evolving team priorities and organizational goals, and contribute to related efforts that drive departmental effectiveness.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Business or a related technical field Minimum of 5 years of experience as an executive assistant or in a similar role in technical project management, operations, strategy, or consulting, preferably in a high-growth, tech-centric environment 3+ years of experience supporting a senior executive, preferably at the C-level Incredible organizational, multitasking, and time management skills Demonstrated ability to manage shifting priorities with stoicism and professionalism Able to operate with both urgency and patience in a fast-paced, ambiguous environment Experience coordinating executive-level travel, communications, and logistics Impeccable judgment, discretion, and trustworthiness with personal and confidential information Strong emotional intelligence and a collaborative, low-ego approach, to building relationships across all levels The ability to anticipate needs and solve problems before they surface; a “no task too small” attitude paired with ownership of high-priority deliverables High proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Outlook, Teams, PowerPoint, Word and Excel Exceptional written and verbal communication skills Must be able to lift up to 30 lbs. Willingness & ability to travel for event preparation or support operational tasks U.S. Citizenship required & the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance.
Preferred Qualifications
Master's degree in engineering, a MBA, or a related technical field. Previous experience in a venture-backed aerospace, defense, or hard tech company, particularly within a hyper-growth startup, enterprise technology environment, or fast-paced consulting firm. Experience working within or supporting DoD, military programs, dual-use technologies or complex R&D environments Experience working with cross-functional teams, external partners, government agencies, and senior stakeholders A steady, proactive presence in a dynamic, high-pressure environment Commitment to the mission, supporting the CTO so they can focus on advancing critical objectives Deep understanding of technology org dynamics; familiarity with software engineering or product development environments is a plus
Work Environment
This role is an on-site position at Firestorm HQ with up to 30% travel alongside, in preparation, or on behalf of the CTO.
Compensation
U.S. Salary Range: $115,000 - $145,000 USD
The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.
Benefits & Perks
Benefits
Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:
We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals Unlimited PTO Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in December Generous Parental Leave FSA HSA Hospital Indemnity insurance Critical Illness insurance Accident insurance Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm.Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family. Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.
ITAR Compliance
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.
Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us atcareers@launchfirestorm.comso we can provide the support you need.
PI276050012 #J-18808-Ljbffr