Company Description
At Protostar Labs, we design and develop intelligent vision and onboard data processing systems for high-reliability environments where size, weight, power, and cost are tightly constrained. Our technologies bring intelligence directly to satellites, enabling efficient in-orbit data processing, edge AI, and more autonomous space missions.
We work on institutional and commercial space and defense projects, partnering with startups, established companies, and organizations such as the European Space Agency. While space remains our primary focus, our technologies also support demanding terrestrial sectors such as robotics, and industrial automation.
Our vision is to build a globally recognized Croatian space technology company developing advanced spacecraft subsystems and onboard intelligence for the next generation of space missions.
Role Overview
As our Operations Manager, you'll take ownership of a wide range of operational activities that support our company's everyday work and continued growth.
This is a role for someone who can take a task from initial idea to successful completion, whether that means organizing an exhibition booth for an international space conference, coordinating the delivery of specialized equipment, finding the right contractor, or solving an unexpected operational problem.
You'll work closely with management and our technical teams, helping them focus on their core responsibilities by taking care of the organizational and practical details.
No two days will look exactly the same. We're looking for someone who can take responsibility, figure out what needs to be done, bring the right people together, and make sure things happen without requiring constant supervision.
We welcome applications from candidates of all genders.
Responsibilities
Conferences, Trade Shows & Events
- Coordinate participation in international conferences, trade shows, and events in close collaboration with Marketing.
- Manage event organizers, contractors, suppliers, and the production and delivery of promotional materials based on Marketing's requirements.
- Organize event logistics, including transportation, shipping, travel, and accommodation.
- Ensure timely preparation and execution of all operational aspects.
Procurement & Supplier Management
- Source, evaluate, and manage suppliers, contractors, and service providers.
- Obtain and compare quotations, negotiate terms, and coordinate procurement.
- Track orders, deliveries, and supplier commitments.
- Optimize procurement costs and supplier relationships.
- Logistics & Operational Support
- Coordinate domestic and international shipments, deliveries, and transportation.
- Oversee equipment handling, storage, and inventory-related activities.
- Ensure operational resources are available when needed.
- Resolve logistical and day-to-day operational challenges across company locations.
Office & Administrative Operations Management
- Oversee daily administrative and office operations.
- Supervise the Administration & Office Manager, delegate tasks, and monitor execution.
- Coordinate office maintenance, improvements, and external service providers.
- Improve administrative and operational processes.
Operational Projects & Problem Solving
- Take ownership of internal operational projects from planning to execution.
- Coordinate stakeholders, suppliers, timelines, and resources.
- Manage workspace improvements, equipment installations, and other company initiatives.
- Proactively identify and resolve operational challenges.
- Support management with ad hoc operational tasks and initiatives.
Required Skills
- Strong organizational and coordination skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks, stakeholders, and deadlines
- A proactive, independent, and solution-oriented mindset
- Demonstrated ability to take ownership of tasks and drive them through to completion
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including confidence when dealing with suppliers and external partners
- Ability to delegate, coordinate, and follow up on the work of others
- Good negotiation skills and a practical approach to evaluating costs, quality, and timelines
- Excellent problem-solving abilities and resourcefulness when facing unfamiliar challenges
- Strong attention to detail and the ability to prioritize effectively
- Confidence using everyday digital tools, spreadsheets, and task management software
- Good written and spoken Croatian and English
- Category B driving licence
- Willingness to travel occasionally for company activities, conferences, and visits to our Zagreb office.
We're looking for someone who enjoys variety, takes responsibility, and is comfortable figuring things out independently.
Bonus Points
- Previous experience in operations management, project coordination, procurement, logistics, or a similar role
- Familiarity with EU-funded projects, including project administration, reporting requirements, and compliance procedures.
- Experience organizing conferences, trade shows, exhibitions, or corporate events
- Experience coordinating multiple suppliers, contractors, and external stakeholders
- Previous experience supervising or coordinating administrative or operational staff
- Familiarity with international shipping, procurement, and logistics
- Experience working in a technology company, engineering environment, or fast-growing business
- Experience improving internal processes and introducing more efficient ways of working
- An interest in technology, engineering, or the space industry.
What We Offer
- A high level of autonomy and ownership, with the freedom to propose ideas and turn them into action
- Close collaboration with management and technical experts in a dynamic high-tech environment
- Permanent employment contract
- Flexible working hours
- Paid annual leave above the statutory minimum
- Additional days off for important personal and family matters
- Christmas bonus
- Discounted PassSport card.