Chief Operating Officer

At NuWave, we're changing the way the world processes materials.Our patented microwave-assisted technology goes far beyond drying. It offers a smarter, faster, and more efficient way to solve complex processing challenges across industries. From food to recycling to advanced materials, we deliver customizable and scalable solutions that drive innovation and real results. If you're excited by meaningful impact, cutting-edge technology, and cross-industry collaboration, NuWave is where the future is being built.The Role:At NuWave, the Chief Operating Officer turns vision into velocity. You'll lead cross-functional execution across Sales, Design, Operations, HR, and Finance, ensuring projects are delivered on time, on budget, and in sync. This role is less about subject-matter depth and more about organizational clarity, leadership development, and driving scalable systems. As the CEO’s right hand, you’ll clear roadblocks, align teams, and champion a culture of accountability and collaboration.What you'll do:Operational Strategy & PlanningOversee the planning and execution of all operational activitiesTranslate strategic goals into department-level plans and timelinesIdentify gaps in capacity, process, or coordination, and implement targeted solutionsLead weekly operations and project planning meetings with functional leadsProject Oversight & Delivery AccountabilityEnsure on-time, on-budget delivery of client solutions in collaboration with team leadsTrack key project milestones and remove blockers proactivelyOversee coordination between Sales, Design, Operations, HR, and FinanceSupport client delivery forecasting and risk mitigationProcess & Systems ImplementationDesign and implement internal systems for project tracking, reporting, and status updatesEstablish consistent handoff processes between functionsSupport standardization of procedures and workflows across departmentsTeam Leadership & Cross-functional AlignmentManage team leads (Sales, Design, Operations, Finance/Admin)Ensure functional leads are aligned, accountable, and supported in their executionCoach and develop team leads to increase their leadership capacityMaintain open, productive communication across departmentsOversee HR-related responsibilities including onboarding, role clarity, performance expectations, and basic compliance.Ensure appropriate handling of time-off approvals, basic employee relations issues, and administrative consistency across departmentsPartner with the CEO to maintain cultural alignment and address staffing needsMaintain and improve lightweight HR systems (e.g., onboarding checklist, review cycles, role definitions) that support a growing team.Performance Reporting & Continuous ImprovementTrack and report on KPIs for operations, delivery, and internal performanceBuild and maintain lightweight dashboards to monitor business performance and support informed decision-making.Analyze data across departments to identify trends, inefficiencies, or improvement opportunitiesProvide regular insights to the CEO and functional leads to support better planning and executionDrive a culture of continuous improvement and learningRecommend and implement changes that increase throughput, quality, and efficiencyWhat does success look like in the first year?Establish a cross-functional operating cadence with structured weekly updatesLead the on-time delivery of at least 4 major client systems with cross-departmental coordinationDocument and implement project tracking and handoff processesReduce rework by 30% through improved planning, sequencing, and coordinationSupport and coach functional leads, resulting in improved leadership ownership and less reliance on the CEO for daily directionAchieve operational readiness for scale (systems, processes, and team alignment)Build and maintain a lightweight dashboard/reporting system to monitor business performance and support informed decision-makingCoach and empower leads to take ownership of their areas, resulting in faster decision-making and less operational involvement from senior managementQualifications:Bachelor’s degree or technologists diploma in Mechanical Engineering Experience in operations or general management roles within a technical or custom solutions businessProven success leading cross-functional teams and coordinating complex project deliveryExperience coordinating Sales, Design, Production, and Finance functions collaborativelyExperience building internal systems and delivering on operational KPIsStrong organizational and planning skillsExcellent communication and team coordination abilityStructured problem-solving and systems-thinking mindsetAbility to balance detail with big-picture executionHumble, team-focused leader who earns trust through follow-throughDoes this sound like you? Apply today - no cover letter needed.