Talent Acquisition Manager

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. Zone 5 Technologies is seeking an experienced and strategic Talent Acquisition Manager to lead the company's recruiting function in support of our continued growth within the defense and aerospace industry. This leadership role is responsible for developing and executing talent acquisition strategies, leading and developing the recruiting team, and attracting exceptional engineering, technical, manufacturing, and corporate talent. The Talent Acquisition Manager will partner closely with executive leadership, department leaders, and hiring managers to build scalable recruiting processes, strengthen employer branding, and ensure an exceptional candidate experience while maintaining compliance with federal contracting and regulatory requirements. Key Responsibilities Develop and execute comprehensive talent acquisition strategies aligned with business objectives and long‑term workforce planning. Partner with department and program leaders to forecast hiring needs and build proactive talent pipelines for critical engineering, manufacturing, technical, and leadership positions. Lead the full‑cycle recruitment process for exempt and non‑exempt positions, including sourcing, screening, interviewing, offer negotiation, background checks, and security clearance coordination. Manage, mentor, and develop a team of recruiters and Recruitment Operations Specialists, fostering a collaborative, high‑performing recruiting organization. Establish recruiting metrics, dashboards, and analytics to measure effectiveness, identify trends, and drive continuous improvement. Ensure compliance with applicable employment laws and federal contractor regulations, including ITAR, EAR, OFCCP, and other applicable requirements. Develop innovative sourcing strategies utilizing professional networks, industry associations, universities, employee referrals, military transition programs, recruiting events, and digital platforms. Lead employer branding initiatives that position Zone 5 Technologies as an employer of choice within the aerospace and defense industry. Represent the organization at career fairs, industry conferences, networking events, and community outreach initiatives. Oversee applicant tracking systems (ATS), recruiting technologies, and recruitment operations to optimize efficiency and enhance the candidate experience. Collaborate with Human Resources and business leaders to continuously improve hiring processes, onboarding readiness, and workforce planning initiatives. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Minimum of 6 years of talent acquisition experience, including 2 or more years leading, mentoring, or coaching recruiting professionals. At least 3 years of recruiting experience supporting aerospace, defense, manufacturing, or other highly technical industries. Demonstrated success recruiting engineering, manufacturing, technical, and professional talent. Experience managing applicant tracking systems (ATS) and recruiting technologies. Strong understanding of employment law, OFCCP compliance, and federal contractor recruiting requirements. Excellent communication, relationship‑building, organizational, and leadership skills. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced, high‑growth environment. Preferred Qualifications Experience supporting high‑growth organizations, startups, or rapidly scaling businesses. Experience recruiting candidates requiring U.S. security clearances. Working knowledge of ITAR, EAR, and U.S. Person requirements. Experience developing recruiting metrics and executive reporting. Familiarity with employer branding and recruitment marketing strategies. Pay range for this role $142,000 — $169,000 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 4 weeks of paid time off each year 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: #J-18808-Ljbffr