Project Manager

SYOS Aerospace; Mount Maunganui; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 130,000; Part time

Job summary

SYOS Aerospace is seeking a Project Manager to drive R&D projects from concept to prototype, ensuring on-time, on-budget delivery with high quality. You will plan, coordinate, and execute activities across engineering, suppliers, and regulators, while maintaining rigorous documentation and risk management.

The role requires strong leadership, excellent communication, and a proven ability to manage confidential information in a fast-paced aerospace startup environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Aerospace, Robotics, or related technical field; advanced degree preferred.
• 3-5+ years of project management experience in robotics, aerospace, defense, or hardware development.
• Proven track record delivering complex technical projects from concept to prototype.
• Strong understanding of R&D processes and product development lifecycles.
• Experience with project management tools and methodologies; PMP/PRINCE2 advantageous.
• Familiarity with aerospace/defense regulatory requirements and airworthiness processes.
• Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion.

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed project plans with timelines, budgets, and resources.
• Coordinate with engineers, scientists, and technicians to drive prototypes.
• Manage communication with customers, suppliers, and regulators.
• Oversee testing, data collection, and certification support for prototypes.
• Prepare documentation, design specs, and progress reports.
• Identify risks and implement mitigation strategies.
• Manage budgets, resources, and procurement for projects.
• Drive continuous improvement and adherence to standards.

Skills

Project planning

Stakeholder management

Cross-functional teamwork

Communication

Risk management

Problem solving

Agile/PM methodologies

Technical aptitude

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Aerospace, Robotics, or related technical field

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

MS Project

Jira

Asana

Monday.com

Job description

SYOS is a fast-growing global robotics and aerospace company, driving the development of cutting-edge uncrewed vehicles (drones) across air, land, and sea for dual-use applications. We are committed to pushing technological boundaries and delivering exceptional products that consistently exceed customer expectations.

We are seeking a motivated Project Manager to join our growing team. In this role, you will be pivotal in driving the successful execution of innovative projects from concept to prototype. You will be responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing R&D projects, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Project Planning & Management:
  • Develop detailed project plans, including timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
  • Monitor project progress and identify potential risks and issues.
  • Implement effective project management methodologies as appropriate.
• Technical Coordination:
  • Coordinate with cross-functional teams, including engineers, scientists, and technicians.
  • Ensure effective communication and collaboration among team members.
  • Provide technical guidance and support to project teams.
• Stakeholder & External Communication:
  • Manage communication with customers, suppliers, and regulatory authorities.
  • Serve as primary point of contact for external stakeholders on project-related matters.
  • Coordinate supplier relationships and vendor management activities.
• Prototyping & Testing:
  • Oversee the development and testing of prototypes and experimental systems.
  • Ensure that testing procedures are followed and that data is accurately collected and analysed.
  • Support airworthiness and safety certification processes during prototype development.
• Documentation & Reporting:
  • Prepare and maintain detailed project documentation, including design specifications, test reports, and progress updates.
  • Present project updates and findings to stakeholders.
  • Ensure all necessary documentation for patents and regulatory compliance.
  • Maintain strict confidentiality and adhere to security protocols for sensitive and proprietary work.
• Risk Management:
  • Identify and assess potential project risks.
  • Develop and implement risk mitigation strategies.
  • Proactively address project issues and challenges.
• Budget & Resource Management:
  • Manage project budgets and track expenses.
  • Ensure efficient utilisation of resources.
  • Procurement of parts and materials.
• Continuous Improvement:
  • Identify opportunities for process improvement and efficiency gains.
  • Contribute to the development of best practices and standards.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Aerospace, Robotics, or related technical field; advanced degree preferred.
• 3-5+ years of project management experience, preferably in robotics, aerospace, defense, or hardware development.
• Proven track record of successfully delivering complex technical projects from concept through prototype.
• Strong understanding of R&D processes and product development lifecycles.
• Experience with project management tools and methodologies.
• PMP, PRINCE2, or similar project management certification is advantageous.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements in aerospace or defense sectors is a plus.
• Experience with airworthiness certification processes and safety standards is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion.

Skills & Competencies

• Exceptional organisational and time management skills with ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with ability to work effectively across technical and non-technical teams.
• Strong stakeholder management skills with experience engaging customers, suppliers, and regulatory bodies.
• Technical aptitude with ability to understand complex engineering concepts.
• Proficiency with project management software (e.g., MS Project, Jira, Asana, Monday.com).
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic startup environment.
• Self-motivated with a proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues.
• High integrity and commitment to maintaining confidentiality and security protocols.

Note

• Travel will be required for field testing, customer demos, and meetings with suppliers and regulatory authorities.
• This role requires handling sensitive technical and business information; appropriate security clearances may be required.

What We Offer

• A dynamic and fast-paced environment working on state-of-the-art autonomous vehicle technology.
• A four-month contract with the potential to transition into a permanent full-time position.
• The opportunity to work alongside a team of highly skilled and awesome professionals.