Performance Drone Works (PDW) builds technologies for the warfighter, by the warfighter. Born out of the Drone Racing League, our roots are competitive, our mindset is tactical, and our mission is clear: deliver purpose-built unmanned systems to those who serve. We are not here to sell vapor; we build and ship real capabilities for real missions. 

Now, we’re entering a new phase of growth and are looking for a Senior People Operations Partner to own execution and consistency across People Operations. This role is responsible for building structure, driving process discipline, and ensuring policies and workflows are applied clearly and consistently across the company.

You will operate across the full employee lifecycle, partnering closely with People Business Partners, Legal, and leadership to execute on employee relations, compliance, and operational priorities across both U.S. and international teams.

This is a builder role focused on reducing ambiguity, improving consistency, and strengthening how People Operations runs at scale.

What You'll Do

• Own execution of employee lifecycle operations (onboarding, changes, offboarding)
• Build, maintain, and enforce People policies and operating standards
• Own Tier 2 / Tier 3 HR Support Desk escalations and resolution
• Partner with PBPs to execute employee relations matters and investigations
• Establish and maintain compliance processes (I-9, background checks, documentation)
• Support People Operations for international employees, including coordination with external partners and ensuring alignment with local requirements
• Standardize workflows to eliminate one-off decisions and inconsistent practices
• Maintain and evolve People playbooks, documentation, and process guides
• Identify gaps in operations and implement scalable improvements
• Support workforce integration for new locations, expansions, and M&A activity
• Partner cross-functionally with Legal, Finance, and leadership on risk, compliance, and global operations matters
• Drive consistency in how People processes are executed across teams

Requirements

• 7-10 years of experience in People Operations, HR Operations, or similar roles
• Experience handling employee relations and operational execution
• Exposure to international HR operations or multi-country support is a plus
• Experience building or improving processes in high-growth environments
• Strong judgment and ability to balance risk, speed, and consistency
• Ability to operate independently and drive outcomes across functions
• Clear and effective communication skill

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift / carry up to 25 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment as well as manufacturing and test equipment, industrial computers, HMIs, and handheld diagnostic tools. Must be physically capable of walking production floors, accessing equipment in constrained spaces, participating in factory acceptance testing, and supporting on-site system deployments.

Work Environment

This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office equipment and may involve exposure to manufacturing equipment, automated machinery, test systems, and industrial materials. This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments. May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment. This is a fast-paced work environment and requires cross-departmental collaboration with independent and team-based responsibilities. Standard work hours for this position are 8:30am-5:00pm, Monday-Friday, in-office four days per week, with occasional overtime as operational needs demand.

Benefits

PDW values our team, and we offer a compensation package reflective of your experience and capabilities. Benefits include:

• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company.
• Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• On-site gym at our Huntsville, AL location.
• Employer provided life insurance.
• Robust Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation.
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.

EEO Statement

PDW is an equal opportunity employer that upholds all federal and state non-discrimination laws. We ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation for employment for all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.