Business Operations Associate

About Icarus

Icarus is driven by the vision that the Stratosphere represents an untapped frontier, and reclaiming this space will shape the future of aerospace and aerial capabilities. The company develops solar-powered aircraft capable of sustained flight at 60,000 feet for several weeks, enabling continuous, cost-effective, and scalable presence in this atmospheric layer.

Mission

To reassert and sustain leadership in the Stratosphere.

Role Overview

As a Business Operations Associate, you will be responsible for owning operational projects from conception through to implementation, handling ambiguous challenges without predefined solutions. This role requires improving operational processes across all company divisions to support growth and developing data capture and reporting systems that facilitate continuous enhancement.

You will manage high-priority, cross-functional projects that do not specifically belong to any current role, guiding them to successful completion. The position involves dissecting strategic problems, structuring uncertainty, and steering multidisciplinary teams toward informed decisions through methodical, iterative analysis based on first principles.

In-depth work with the company’s business systems—including ERP, HRIS, and proprietary internal tools—is a key element, utilizing data analytics to provide rapid insights and empower teams to self-monitor and optimize processes. Additionally, you will oversee project management across diverse stakeholders, organizing meetings, fostering alignment, and translating objectives between Finance, Recruiting, People Operations, Business Development, and leadership.

Candidate Profile

• 2 to 3 years of relevant experience in fields such as management consulting, investment banking, internal strategy and operations, or business analysis.
• Demonstrated strong analytical ability with a structured and data-focused mindset for problem-solving.
• Highly self-motivated and proactive, capable of independently owning challenges and driving them to completion.
• Skillful in devising clear frameworks to impose order on ambiguous scenarios.
• Exceptional communication capabilities, comfortable presenting to and collaborating with senior executives.
• A dedicated attitude toward receiving feedback and continuous personal development.
• Thrives in dynamic, fast-paced, and demanding environments.

Why Join Icarus?

• Competitive top-tier salary with performance bonuses.
• Meaningful equity participation.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Work in a cutting-edge factory located in El Segundo.
• Gain genuine ownership experience involving real hardware and live flight operations.
• Be part of a small yet rapidly expanding team with substantial responsibilities.
• A culture focused on engineering excellence with minimal managerial overhead.
• Access to an ideal workstation setup.
• Daily catered lunch.
• Unlimited Celsius beverages.

Unique Role Characteristics

• This position is distinct from typical operations roles; the company values pioneers over corporate administrators.
• You will collaborate closely with the CEO and a dedicated team of top-tier builders, directly tackling the tangible challenges of aircraft construction and flight.
• Ownership is paramount—a high-trust environment demanding full accountability and contribution.
• The role requires practical problem solvers who are autonomous, avoid unnecessary tasks, and deliver real-world outcomes.
• Ability to perform under pressure, rapidly assimilate knowledge, and solve cross-departmental issues is essential.
• Fast-paced operations with a strong emphasis on quality and timely execution.

Recruitment Process

• Initial introductory call.
• Interview session with the CEO.
• In-person meeting with the team.

Compensation Details

The estimated annual base salary ranges from 100000 to 140000 USD. Actual pay may vary based on factors such as experience, education, critical expertise, and other business considerations. Substantial equity grants form part of the total remuneration package.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The company is an equal opportunity employer committed to inclusivity regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability.