Test Field & Prototyping Facilities Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Test Field & Prototyping Facilities Manager

Company: Leonardo

Location: DE - Bulgaria - TPZG Bulgaria

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Operations (Facilities, Logistics, and Prototyping)

Date Posted: April 30, 2026

Experience Level: Expert (5-10 years)

Remote Status: Onsite

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee and manage the daily operations of a specialized test field and prototyping facility, crucial for UAV (drone) protection systems.

• Drive efficiency and operational excellence in an international, English-speaking team environment.

• Facilitate the end-to-end product lifecycle, from initial prototype development to final field deployment of advanced defense technology.

• Leverage AI assistants and modern technologies to enhance day-to-day tasks and accelerate work processes.

• Contribute to the strategic development and scaling of prototyping and facility management functions within a rapidly growing organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as an "Expert" level, suggesting a need for significant hands-on experience and a proactive, self-directed approach to managing complex operational environments. The focus on "hands-on coordinator" and solving problems internally points towards a role that requires both strategic oversight and practical execution. The mention of "shaping how this function is built" indicates a significant opportunity for impact and process definition.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manage the day-to-day operations of the test site, ensuring all necessary resources, equipment, and infrastructure are accessible and functional for testing activities.

• Maintain comprehensive inventory control for components, raw materials, and specialized tooling, ensuring adequate stock levels and proper storage conditions.

• Oversee the procurement process for essential parts and materials, including managing international logistics, customs clearance, and compliance with relevant regulations.

• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot 3D printers and other fabrication/assembly equipment, ensuring optimal performance and minimal downtime.

• Provide hands-on support for prototyping and small-series assembly of counter-drone hardware, adhering to technical specifications and quality standards.

• Collaborate effectively with a diverse, international team, utilizing English as the primary language for daily communication and project coordination.

• Integrate and utilize AI assistants to streamline workflows, accelerate task completion, and enhance overall productivity within the operations.

• Ensure compliance with all relevant Bulgarian regulations, including import laws, dual-use goods handling, and workplace safety standards.

• Support occasional travel requirements for site visits, installations, or collaboration with international teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities blend facility management, inventory control, logistics, procurement, and hands-on technical work (3D printing, assembly). This indicates a multifaceted role requiring a broad operational skillset. The emphasis on "hands-on" and "solving problems themselves" suggests that candidates should be prepared to engage directly with equipment and processes, rather than solely managing external vendors.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Supply Chain, or a related technical field would be highly advantageous for an "Expert" level role. Relevant vocational training or extensive certifications in specialized areas like additive manufacturing or facility management could also be considered.

Experience: A minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in a relevant operational role, with a proven track record of managing physical facilities, complex logistics, or advanced fabrication processes.

Required Skills:

• Demonstrated hands-on experience in at least one of the following core areas:

  • Facility or test-site management, including infrastructure maintenance and operational readiness.
  • International logistics and procurement, covering sourcing, shipping, customs, and compliance.
  • 3D printing and additive manufacturing, including operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of various printer types.
  • Equipment testing, certification, and maintenance within a technical or industrial environment.

• Proficient written and spoken English communication skills, essential for daily interaction with an international team.

• Strong self-motivation and the ability to work independently, effectively prioritizing and managing multiple parallel tasks and projects.

• A practical, hands-on problem-solving approach, with a keen ability to identify and resolve technical challenges efficiently.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in assembling small electronic or mechanical equipment, covering the full lifecycle from procurement to maintenance and certification.

• Familiarity and practical experience with AI assistants, such as Claude, for workflow acceleration and task optimization.

• A demonstrated interest in robotics, drones, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or autonomous systems.

• Previous experience working within fast-growing operational teams, adapting to shifting timelines and evolving priorities.

• Working knowledge of Bulgarian regulations pertaining to imports, dual-use goods, and workplace safety.

• Proficiency in the Bulgarian language, beneficial for local supplier and authority interactions.

• Prior experience working with or within a German company, understanding their operational and communication styles.

• Possession of a valid driver's license.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Essential Skills" are framed as "hands-on experience in at least one of" indicating a preference for depth in one area, but breadth across several is highly valued. The "Desirable Skills" offer clear pathways for candidates to differentiate themselves and align with the company's specific technological focus and international operational context.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Process Documentation: Candidates are expected to demonstrate their ability to document operational processes. This includes workflow diagrams, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and process maps that clearly illustrate the steps involved in facility management, inventory handling, procurement, and assembly.

• Efficiency Improvements: Showcase specific examples of implemented process improvements that led to measurable gains in efficiency, cost reduction, or lead time reduction within a relevant operational context (e.g., test site operations, logistics, prototyping). Quantifiable results and ROI data are critical.

• System Implementation: Evidence of experience with implementing or significantly improving operational systems, such as inventory management systems, procurement platforms, or 3D printing workflow management tools. This could include system selection, configuration, or user training.

• Problem-Solving Case Studies: Detailed case studies illustrating how complex operational challenges were identified, analyzed, and resolved. Focus on the methodology used, the solutions implemented, and the tangible outcomes achieved.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Portfolios should include examples of designed or optimized workflows for critical operational areas like material requisition, equipment calibration, testing scheduling, or prototype assembly. Emphasis on clarity, efficiency, and scalability.

• Implementation & Automation: Demonstrate experience in implementing new processes or automating existing ones, particularly relevant to 3D printing workflows, inventory tracking, or logistics coordination. This could include the use of scripting, software integrations, or workflow automation tools.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Examples of how key performance indicators (KPIs) for operations (e.g., uptime, inventory accuracy, procurement lead times, assembly throughput) were defined, tracked, and analyzed to drive continuous improvement. Visualization of data through dashboards or reports is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the "Expert" seniority and the nature of the role, a robust portfolio is crucial. It should not just list responsibilities but demonstrate tangible achievements, process ownership, and the ability to drive operational improvements. The focus on "hands-on" and "problem-solving" implies that portfolio examples should reflect direct involvement and practical application of skills.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: For an "Expert" level Test Field & Prototyping Facilities Manager in Bulgaria, with 5-10 years of experience, a competitive salary range is estimated between €35,000 - €55,000 annually. This estimate is based on typical compensation benchmarks for specialized operational and technical management roles in the European defense technology sector, adjusted for the cost of living and market rates in Bulgaria. Factors such as specific technical expertise, prior international experience, and negotiation will influence the final offer.

Benefits:

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and skill enhancement in emerging defense-tech fields, including robotics, UAV technology, and advanced manufacturing.

• International Team Environment: Work within a collaborative and diverse team of professionals from various international backgrounds, fostering cross-cultural understanding and global perspective.

• Exposure to Full Product Lifecycle: Gain comprehensive experience across the entire product development and deployment cycle, from initial prototyping and testing to real-world field installations.

• Competitive Compensation Package: Includes a competitive base salary, potential for performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive benefits.

• Health and Wellness: Comprehensive health insurance and potential wellness programs to support employee well-being.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation days, public holidays, and sick leave allowances.

• Retirement Savings Plan: Company-sponsored retirement savings or pension plan.

Working Hours: The standard working hours are expected to be approximately 40 hours per week, aligning with typical full-time employment in Bulgaria. While a core onsite presence is required, the company may offer some flexibility for task management and workflow optimization, acknowledging the dynamic nature of prototyping and test field operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation for Bulgaria, considering the "Expert" level and the specialized nature of the role within the defense technology industry. The benefits are extrapolated from common offerings for such roles in international companies with a focus on professional growth and employee well-being.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Defense Technology, Aerospace, and Security. Leonardo is a global player in high-tech sectors, with a significant focus on advanced solutions for defense, security, and aerospace. This specific role is within the counter-drone technology segment, a rapidly evolving and critical area of defense. The market context involves stringent regulatory environments, high technological innovation, and a focus on reliability and performance.

Company Size: Leonardo is a large, multinational corporation with tens of thousands of employees worldwide. This implies a structured corporate environment with established processes, but also opportunities to contribute to specialized, agile teams. For operations professionals, this size can mean access to extensive resources, training programs, and a broad network of internal experts, while also requiring adaptability to corporate structures.

Founded: Leonardo has a rich history dating back centuries through its predecessor companies, with the modern entity formed through various mergers and acquisitions. This long heritage signifies stability, deep industry knowledge, and a commitment to long-term innovation. For operations, this history suggests a culture that values robust engineering, quality, and enduring solutions.

Team Structure:

• The operations team is likely small and specialized, focusing on the specific needs of the Bulgarian test field and prototyping facility.

• Reporting structure will likely involve a direct line to a regional or divisional operations manager, with close collaboration with engineering, R&D, and project management teams, both locally and internationally.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Operations will rely on data from testing, inventory levels, procurement lead times, and equipment performance to identify bottlenecks and opportunities for improvement.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Emphasis on designing and refining workflows for efficient material handling, prototype assembly, and test execution, particularly in a dynamic, project-driven environment.

• Automation & Efficiency Practices: Leveraging technology, including AI assistants and potentially scripting, to automate repetitive tasks, improve accuracy, and increase overall operational throughput.

Company Website: https://www.leonardo.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's industry and size are critical context. As a large defense contractor, there's an expectation of high standards, rigorous processes, and a focus on security and compliance. The "Expert" level role in a specific, evolving technology area like counter-drone systems suggests a blend of corporate structure and agile operational execution.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This "Expert" level role signifies a senior individual contributor or a team lead position, responsible for the direct management and operational execution of a critical facility. It requires a deep understanding of operational processes, hands-on technical capability, and the ability to independently drive projects and solve complex problems. The scope includes not just daily management but also the strategic shaping of the function.

Reporting Structure: The role likely reports to a higher-level Operations Manager or Head of Operations, potentially based in another European location (e.g., Germany, given the reference to Darmstadt). Close collaboration with Engineering, R&D, and Project Management departments is expected, forming a matrixed reporting and collaboration environment.

Operations Impact: The Test Field & Prototyping Facilities Manager has a direct and significant impact on the company's ability to innovate and deliver advanced defense technology. Their effective management of resources, processes, and equipment directly influences the speed of prototyping, the reliability of testing, and the readiness of counter-drone systems for deployment, ultimately contributing to Leonardo's competitive edge and mission success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Leadership: Potential to grow into broader operational management roles, overseeing larger facilities, multiple sites, or specialized operational domains within Leonardo.

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like additive manufacturing, advanced testing methodologies, or defense supply chain management, becoming a subject matter expert.

• Process Improvement & Strategy: Lead initiatives to redefine and optimize operational processes, contributing to the strategic direction of prototyping and test operations within the company.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunities to move into related fields such as project management, supply chain management, or R&D operations, leveraging a strong operational foundation.

• International Exposure: Continued involvement in international projects and collaboration, potentially leading to roles with global responsibilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Expert" designation implies a significant level of autonomy and strategic contribution. Growth opportunities should reflect advancement beyond day-to-day management into areas of strategic process design, leadership, and broader operational responsibility within a large, international corporation.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is predominantly onsite, requiring a physical presence at the test field and prototyping facility in Bulgaria. The environment will likely be a combination of office space for administrative tasks and logistics management, and workshop/lab areas for 3D printing, assembly, and testing activities.

Office Location(s): The primary location is specified as "DE - Bulgaria - TPZG Bulgaria." This suggests a dedicated facility, potentially part of a larger industrial or research park, designed for specialized testing and prototyping operations. Accessibility information would typically be provided upon interview.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: While much of the work is hands-on and independent, there will be significant collaboration with local and international engineering, R&D, and project teams. This requires a workspace that supports both focused individual work and effective communication.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to modern 3D printers, fabrication equipment, testing instruments, inventory management software, and AI assistant tools will be integral to the workspace.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct interaction with a core local team and frequent virtual interaction with a distributed international team. Team meetings, project reviews, and informal knowledge-sharing sessions are likely.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is typical. However, the dynamic nature of prototyping and test field operations may occasionally require flexibility to meet project deadlines or address urgent operational needs, especially given the critical nature of defense technology development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Onsite" work arrangement is a key factor. The description implies a hands-on, technically focused environment, blending administrative and practical work. The mention of "TPZG Bulgaria" might refer to a specific industrial zone or technological park.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and a brief introductory call to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion focusing on your hands-on experience in facility management, logistics, procurement, 3D printing, or assembly. Expect scenario-based questions related to problem-solving and operational challenges.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session to present your portfolio, showcasing specific examples of process improvements, project management, and operational achievements. This is where you demonstrate your impact.

• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with key team members and stakeholders (e.g., engineering leads, project managers) to assess collaboration skills, communication style, and alignment with team dynamics.

• Final Interview: A discussion with senior management to finalize the offer, covering strategic alignment and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Process Improvement Case Study: Structure your case studies clearly: identify the problem, describe your approach and actions (emphasizing your hands-on role), detail the solution implemented, and quantify the results (e.g., % reduction in lead time, cost savings, improved uptime).

• Metrics Presentation: Be prepared to present key operational metrics relevant to this role, such as inventory accuracy, equipment utilization rates, procurement cycle times, and assembly throughput. Explain how you used data to drive decisions.

• Company-Specific Operations: Research Leonardo's operations in Bulgaria and their counter-drone technology. Tailor your examples to demonstrate how your skills align with their specific needs and challenges.

• Problem-Solving Examples: Choose examples that highlight your ability to think critically and act decisively in complex, fast-paced environments. Show your practical, hands-on approach.

Challenge Preparation:

• Operational Scenario: You might be presented with a hypothetical operational challenge (e.g., a critical piece of equipment failing before a key test, a supply chain disruption) and asked to outline your immediate response and long-term mitigation strategy.

• Process Mapping Exercise: Be ready to quickly sketch out or describe a process relevant to the role (e.g., managing a new component order, setting up a test run) highlighting key control points and potential failure modes.

• Stakeholder Communication: Practice articulating technical and operational issues clearly and concisely to non-technical stakeholders, focusing on impact and proposed solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for an "Expert" role will be rigorous. The portfolio review is a critical component, requiring candidates to not just list skills but demonstrate their application and impact with concrete evidence. Preparation for scenario-based questions and process articulation is key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Printing & Additive Manufacturing: Experience with various 3D printer technologies (e.g., FDM, SLA, SLS), including operation, maintenance, slicing software (e.g., Cura, Simplify3D), and material handling.

• Inventory Management Software: Proficiency with systems for tracking components, materials, tools, and finished goods. This could range from sophisticated ERP modules to dedicated inventory tracking tools.

• Procurement & Logistics Platforms: Familiarity with tools for managing purchase orders, tracking shipments, handling customs documentation, and potentially using logistics management software.

• AI Assistants: Experience utilizing AI tools such as Claude for tasks like drafting documentation, summarizing information, generating reports, or assisting with technical queries.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced proficiency in tools like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets for data analysis, tracking, and reporting on operational KPIs.

• Data Visualization Tools: Familiarity with tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, or even advanced Excel charting) for creating dashboards and reports to present operational performance to stakeholders.

• ERP/MRP Systems: Experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) or Material Requirements Planning (MRP) systems for integrated management of inventory, procurement, and production.

CRM & Automation:

• Project Management Software: Tools like Jira, Asana, or Trello for managing project timelines, tasks, and team collaboration, especially relevant for prototyping and testing phases.

• Workflow Automation Tools: While perhaps not a primary requirement, familiarity with basic automation concepts or tools that can streamline repetitive tasks in inventory, procurement, or reporting would be beneficial.

• Communication & Collaboration Platforms: Expertise in using tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or Zoom for effective communication and collaboration with an international, remote team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes practical, hands-on tools for manufacturing, inventory, and logistics, alongside modern digital tools like AI assistants and collaboration platforms. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with specific software and hardware relevant to these areas.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Hands-On Problem Solving: A core value is the expectation that team members will actively engage in solving challenges directly, rather than solely delegating. This fosters a proactive and accountable operational environment.

• Efficiency & Optimization: A continuous drive to improve processes, reduce waste, and maximize the utilization of resources and equipment. This is critical for cost-effectiveness and timely delivery in the defense sector.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Operations decisions are informed by data and performance metrics, ensuring that improvements are measurable and impactful.

• Collaboration & Communication: Strong emphasis on clear, open, and timely communication, especially across international and cross-functional teams, to ensure alignment and smooth operations.

• Adaptability & Resilience: In a fast-paced, evolving industry like defense-tech, the ability to adapt to changing requirements, timelines, and technologies is paramount.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Operations works closely with engineering, R&D, and project management to ensure that prototyping and testing capabilities meet evolving project needs.

• Process Review & Feedback: A culture that encourages constructive feedback on processes and workflows, fostering continuous improvement through collective input.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouragement of sharing best practices, technical insights, and lessons learned across the team and with international counterparts to build collective expertise.

• Proactive Communication: A preference for proactive updates and early identification of potential issues to prevent delays and ensure project success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture values initiative, practical problem-solving, and collaborative efficiency. For operations professionals, this means being a proactive, results-oriented individual who thrives in a dynamic, technically focused environment and can communicate effectively across diverse teams.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Dynamic Project Timelines: The defense-tech sector often involves shifting requirements and tight deadlines, requiring quick adaptation and prioritization of tasks.

• International Logistics Complexity: Managing procurement and shipping across borders involves navigating customs regulations, import restrictions, and potential delays, demanding meticulous planning and execution.

• Equipment Maintenance & Uptime: Ensuring continuous operation of specialized equipment like 3D printers and test rigs requires proactive maintenance and rapid troubleshooting to minimize operational downtime.

• Balancing Innovation with Compliance: The role requires supporting cutting-edge prototyping while adhering to strict defense industry regulations and safety standards.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Technical Training: Opportunities to gain certifications or advanced training in additive manufacturing, specific testing methodologies, or relevant engineering disciplines.

• Defense Supply Chain & Logistics: Deepen expertise in the intricacies of defense procurement, export controls, and international supply chain management.

• AI Integration & Application: Develop skills in leveraging AI tools for operational efficiency, data analysis, and process automation.

• Leadership & Project Management: Develop skills in managing projects, leading technical initiatives, and potentially mentoring junior team members as the function grows.

• Industry Exposure: Attend relevant industry conferences, trade shows, and workshops to stay abreast of the latest technologies and best practices in defense-tech operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are inherent to the defense industry and the hands-on nature of the role. Growth opportunities are geared towards deepening technical expertise, enhancing operational leadership capabilities, and expanding knowledge in specialized areas relevant to the company's strategic direction.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operational Strategy: "Describe how you would establish and maintain an efficient workflow for prototype development and testing in a facility with limited resources and dynamic project demands." Focus on process mapping, resource allocation, and risk mitigation.

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a critical component for a prototype is delayed due to customs issues. What steps would you take immediately and what long-term solutions would you propose to prevent recurrence?" Highlight your hands-on approach, communication skills, and proactive planning.

• Stakeholder Management: "How would you ensure clear communication and alignment between your test facility operations and the international engineering team regarding prototype readiness and testing results?" Emphasize reporting structures, communication tools, and proactive feedback loops.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Company Alignment: "What interests you about Leonardo's work in drone defense technology, and how do your skills align with our mission?" Research Leonardo's recent projects and values.

• Team Dynamics: "Describe your experience working in international, English-speaking teams. How do you handle communication challenges and build rapport?" Provide examples of successful cross-cultural collaboration.

• Operations Impact: "Can you share an example of how your operational improvements directly contributed to cost savings or accelerated project delivery in a previous role?" Prepare a concise case study with quantifiable results.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each portfolio item, clearly articulate the problem, your specific actions and contributions (emphasizing hands-on involvement), the solution implemented, and the measurable outcomes.

• Quantify Everything: Use numbers, percentages, and data to demonstrate the impact of your work. This is crucial for showing ROI and efficiency gains.

• Showcase Process Documentation: Include visual aids like workflow diagrams or process maps to illustrate your understanding of process design and optimization.

• Highlight Problem-Solving: Select examples that clearly demonstrate your ability to tackle complex technical and operational challenges.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize experience relevant to facility management, logistics, 3D printing, and defense technology, aligning your examples with the job description's requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating practical application of skills, quantifiable achievements, and a strategic approach to operations management within the context of defense technology. The portfolio is a key tool for showcasing this.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link on the Leonardo Career Site.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords from the job description, such as "facility management," "international logistics," "3D printing," "prototyping," "procurement," and "defense technology." Quantify achievements with numbers and specific results.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a portfolio that includes specific examples of process improvements, operational projects, and case studies demonstrating your hands-on problem-solving abilities in areas relevant to this role. Be ready to present this effectively.

• Interview Practice: Prepare for scenario-based questions, technical discussions, and portfolio presentations. Practice articulating your experience and problem-solving approach clearly and concisely.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Leonardo, its operations in Bulgaria, its work in drone defense technology, and its corporate values to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.