---
title: 'Principal Logistics Coordinator  (Flight Test) at Zone 5 Technologies'
canonical: 'https://feeny.ai/job/principal-logistics-coordinator-flight-test-zone-5-technologies-san-luis-obispo-4gsc2nea5p1q'
type: 'job'
last_seen: '2026-09-08'
---

# Principal Logistics Coordinator  (Flight Test) at Zone 5 Technologies

- **Company:** Zone 5 Technologies
- **Location:** San Luis Obispo California, United States
- **Compensation:** $110k–$149k
- **Posted:** 2026-03-13
- **Last confirmed live:** 2026-09-08
- **Apply:** https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/zone5technologies/jobs/5152917008

## Job description

At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in unmanned aircraft systems. Our team of engineers and innovators is developing cutting-edge autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology - solving complex challenges that matter.

We're building the future of UAS capabilities, and we're looking for exceptional talent to join us. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on next-generation flight systems, you belong here.

At Zone 5 Technologies, our flight test operations depend on disciplined execution and zero-failure logistics. We support multiple concurrent programs across geographically separated sites and demanding flight schedules where late is not an option. We are seeking a Logistics Manager to architect and lead a professional, auditable, and scalable logistics and inventory management capability across all programs and teams.

This role will build and enforce processes that ensure equipment is tracked, maintained, transported, and available, painlessly and on time, across all current and future programs supported by the flight test team.

Responsibilities:

Inventory & Asset Management Architecture

- Design and implement a centralized inventory management system for flight test and engineering assets
- Establish sign-in/sign-out procedures with clear accountability and traceability
- Track equipment ownership, custody, duration of use, and program allocation
- Develop serialized asset control for tools, avionics, test equipment, support equipment, and vehicles
- Develop training materials and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for inventory control

Equipment Allocation & Program Coordination

- Forecast equipment demand across concurrent programs based on flight test schedules
- Deconflict asset usage between teams
- Establish planning cadence to ensure test equipment and vehicles are staged in advance of need
- Coordinate logistics readiness reviews prior to deployments

Procurement & Replenishment

- Execute equipment purchases using established procurement processes
- Maintain approved vendor lists and long-lead item tracking
- Monitor inventory thresholds and trigger reorders proactively
- Ensure cost efficiency and lifecycle planning of major assets

Fleet & Flight Test Resource Management

- Develop and enforce prior-to-use inspections, weekly inspections, and preventive maintenance schedules for:

o Trucks

o Trailers

o Vans

o Ground support equipment

- Manage vehicle documentation, maintenance logs, and regulatory compliance
- Coordinate repairs and downtime mitigation

Interstate Equipment Movement & Compliance

- Manage logistics movements across the USA and OCONUS, and other operating locations
- Ensure proper paperwork, labeling, and HAZMAT compliance
- Coordinate shipment tracking and chain-of-custody documentation
- Communicate shipment status to program leadership
- Guarantee equipment arrives in-place and mission-ready on schedule

Process & Continuous Improvement

- Establish KPIs for logistics performance (on-time delivery, asset availability, loss rates, maintenance compliance)
- Conduct audits and implement corrective actions
- Develop scalable systems to support company growth

Qualifications:

- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Operations, or related field (experience in aerospace or defense preferred)
- 5–8+ years of logistics or asset management experience in high-reliability environments
- Experience building inventory systems from scratch preferred
- Familiarity with HAZMAT shipping regulations and interstate transport compliance
- Strong organizational leadership and cross-team coordination skills
- Experience with ERP, inventory software, or asset management systems
- Ability to operate in fast-paced flight test or operational environments
- Ability to travel up to 50%

Preferred:

- Experience in aerospace, defense, or flight test operations
- Experience managing distributed assets across multiple sites
- Familiarity with FAA, DOT, and shipping regulations
- Lean / Six Sigma or operational excellence background

Pay range for this role $110,000—$149,000 USD

What's in it for you:

Benefits:

- Competitive total compensation package
- Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.
- 401k with company-match
- 3 weeks of paid time off each year
- 40 hours of sick time
- 12 annual company holidays

Why Join Zone 5 Technologies?

- Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.
- Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
- Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be a part of a dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team!

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. As required by law, we will verify the identity and employment authorization of all new employees using the E-Verify system. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under E-Verify: https://www.e-verify.gov.

## About Zone 5 Technologies

## Company Overview
- **One-liner**: Zone 5 Technologies develops advanced unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and next-generation munitions for U.S. Department of Defense customers, with a focus on modular, open-architecture designs and rapid prototyping.
- **Entity Type**: Private (acquired by Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace; prior to acquisition was privately held)
- **Headquarters**: San Luis Obispo, California, United States
- **Founded**: 2011
- **Founders**: Not publicly available

## Core Business
- **Primary Industry**: Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing; Defense Technology
- **Target Customers**: U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), and allied military forces (B2G)
- **Mission Statement**: "Create the future" – focused on enabling modularity, collaboration, and rapid deployment of unmanned systems and munitions.

## Products & Services
- **Paladin UAS**: A multi-mission, TAK-integrated unmanned aircraft system that serves as an autonomous wingman. Capabilities include counter-UAS interception, precision munitions drop, and rifle takedowns. Listed on the DIU Blue UAS Refresh list, ensuring NDAA compliance and cybersecurity. (Hardware + Software)
- **White Spike Interceptor**: A modular, open-C2 missile and launcher system available in surface‑ and air‑launched configurations. Designed for counter-UAS and precision strike missions. (Hardware + Software)
- **Air Launched Effects (ALE)**: Low‑cost, digitally engineered effects for affordable mass and precision strike from mobility, bomber, and tactical aircraft. (Hardware + Software)
- **Next‑Gen Munitions**: Low‑cost containerized missile systems, including the Extended Range Attack Munition. (Hardware)
- **Engineering Services / R&D**: End‑to‑end system development including CONOPS, vehicle design, avionics, embedded hardware/software, ground control stations, and mission planning software.

## Market Standing
- **Valuation/Market Cap**: Not publicly disclosed (acquired by Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace)
- **Key Metric**: Total headcount of 183 (LinkedIn, 2026‑07), representing +241.1% year‑over‑year growth
- **Notable Investors/Partners**: Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (acquirer); DIU (multiple contract awards); U.S. Air Force
- **Growth Signals**:
  - 241% headcount growth in the last year
  - Selected for multiple DoD/DIU programs: Blue UAS Refresh, Low‑Cost Containerized Missiles, Counter UAS Next, Extended Range Attack Munition, Enterprise Test Vehicle
  - 108 active job postings (260% year‑over‑year increase)
  - 13,284 LinkedIn followers (+62% yearly)

## Competitive Advantages
- **Vertical Integration**: Concept‑to‑production capability – design, manufacturing, testing, and sustainment in‑house.
- **Open Systems / Modularity**: MOSA/WOSA architectures enable rapid adaptation of vehicles, sensors, and weapons.
- **Blue UAS Listing**: Provides an Authority to Operate (ATO) for all DoD operators, a key differentiator for government contracts.
- **Flight‑Proven Hardware**: Paladin and White Spike have undergone extensive flight testing (SIL, HIL, flight tests).
- **Agile Prototyping**: Low‑cost, digitally engineered designs allow for fast iteration and unit‑cost discipline.

## Strategic Focus
- **Expanding DoD & Allied Contracts**: Leveraging recent DIU and Air Force wins to secure production orders for Paladin, White Spike, and missile systems.
- **Scaling Workforce & Capabilities**: Rapid hiring across engineering (GNC, embedded, avionics, flight test) to support increasing program loads.
- **International Expansion**: Acquisition by Kongsberg may open access to NATO and allied markets.
- **Next‑Gen Munitions**: Emphasis on affordable mass – developing low‑cost missiles for high‑volume procurement.

## Why Work Here
- **Culture & Ratings**: Employer rating 4.2/5 on LinkedIn (based on 8 reviews); Work‑Life 4.0, Compensation 3.6, Culture 3.4, Career 3.8.
- **Growth Opportunity**: 108 open positions across software, hardware, flight test, and manufacturing – strong upward mobility in a rapidly expanding company.
- **Technical Environment**: Tech stack includes Python, MATLAB, C++, CUDA, PyTorch, Docker, Kubernetes, PostgreSQL, React, GitLab, Jenkins, and more – modern engineering tools.
- **Mission‑Driven Work**: Directly contribute to defense technology that is fielded today (Blue UAS, interceptor programs).
- **Location**: San Luis Obispo, CA – a vibrant college town near the Central Coast with outdoor lifestyle.
- **Hybrid/Remote**: Not specifically stated; most roles appear on‑site at one of three U.S. offices (San Luis Obispo, Fort Walton Beach FL, Fort Worth TX).

## Sources
1. [LinkedIn – Zone 5 Technologies](https://www.linkedin.com/company/zone-5-technologies)
2. [Company Website – zone5tech.com](https://www.zone5tech.com/)
3. [Greenhouse Careers Page](http://job-boards.greenhouse.io/zone5technologies)
4. [robotics.press – Company Profile](https://robotics.press/news/zone-5-technologies-company-profile/)
5. [YouTube – Zone 5 Technologies](https://www.youtube.com/@Zone5Technologies)

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