Operations Manager

Benefits: 401(k) matchingDental insuranceHealth insuranceStock options planVision insurance Company Diffraqtion is building the world's first Quantum Camera, a device that replaces a conventional camera and edge AI processor by computing at the speed of light. We are an 11-employee startup backed by DARPA, NASA, and leading venture investors, and founded by MIT and Harvard scientists with deep roots in AI, optics, and quantum sensing. We are delivering orders-of-magnitude improvements in resolution, processing speed, and energy efficiency for machines and satellites that need to see and think at the edge. The Role We are hiring an Operations Manager, reporting directly to the CEO, to take ownership of day-to-day operational tasks to keep our team moving forward. This is a broad, hands-on role spanning facilities, events, contracting, accounting, IT, and executive support tasks. The ideal candidate is a generalist who thrives in an early-stage technical environment, enjoys wearing multiple hats, and takes pride in keeping a growing company organized. Note: This position requires U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent resident status, or eligibility for authorization under U.S. export control regulations (ITAR/EAR). Responsibilities Design and maintain the office space and team areasCoordinate with building management and various service providersServe as primary organizer for meetings, investor & customer visits, and team eventsSupport implementation of workplace safety and security policiesManage office-related purchasing and inventory managementSupport technical-related purchasing, order tracking, and supplier invoicingTrack supplier, vendor, customer, and investor contractsAssist with day-to-day IT logistics and data handling proceduresSupport day-to-day HR activities including employee onboarding, payroll processing, and benefits enrollmentProcess expense reports and reimbursementsManage internal communicationsSupport marketing and publicity activitiesCoordinate external events and travel arrangementsCompile and format materials for board meetings and investor updatesOther responsibilities as required Qualifications 5 - 7 years of experience in operations, office management, or executive support, ideally at an early-stage startupComfortable working in ambiguity and building processes from scratch rather than following established onesStrong written and verbal communication skills, with sound judgment on when to escalate vs. handle independentlyExperience with business software (Microsoft Office, QuickBooks or similar) at an admin levelDemonstrated ability to leverage AI tools (e.g., Claude / ChatGPT) to increase productivity and automate routine tasksComfortable handling sensitive or confidential information (HR, legal, financial, government contracting) Nice to have (not required) Prior experience in startup environmentsPrior experience in government-regulated or export-controlled industries (aerospace, defense, etc.)Prior experience with highly technical engineering or scientific research teamsPrior experience with advanced legal documentationPrior experience with accounting or financial reporting Benefits (available for Full-Time employees) Company equity options on a high-growth startupMedical, dental and vision Company 401K matchCompany discountsUnlimited PTO Equal Opportunity Employer: Diffraqtion is committed to fostering an inclusive and meritocratic workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should notify our Human Resources Department.