We’re looking for a hands-on quality leader to take X-BAT from early prototype builds through production launch and into rate production.
This role owns the Quality Management System, quality engineering, inspection, nonconformance management and audit readiness for the X-BAT manufacturing operation. You’ll partner with Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Production and Supply Chain to prevent defects, resolve recurring problems and deliver aircraft that meet technical, customer and applicable regulatory requirements.
We need a technically credible leader who can build practical, scalable systems, make sound decisions under schedule pressure and challenge senior stakeholders constructively while keeping execution moving.
Build quality into prototype and launch
Lead quality planning and execution for X-BAT prototype and development builds, establishing appropriate inspection, test evidence and build records as designs evolve.
Partner with Engineering and Manufacturing Engineering to identify product and process risks, define critical controls and build quality requirements into tooling, work instructions and test plans.
Establish configuration and traceability controls with Engineering and Production, ensuring each aircraft’s build status, deviations and nonconformances are understood and documented.
Capture lessons from build, integration and test issues, and drive their incorporation into design changes, manufacturing processes and future builds.
Define quality readiness criteria for pre-series builds and production launch, validating inspection methods, process controls, workforce competence and closure of significant risks.
Establish the Seattle quality operation
Recruit, develop and lead the quality team, building the technical capability and frontline support needed as aircraft production grows.
Establish and maintain a lean, effective QMS for X-Forge 3, aligned with Shield AI’s wider quality framework, AS9100, ISO 9001 and applicable customer requirements.
Qualification
Bachelor’s degree in engineeringDeep expertise in containmentExperience with complex assemblyExperience in aircraft final assemblyAdvanced degree in engineeringTemporary employee offer package
Required
Bachelor’s degree in engineering, quality or a related technical field.
10+ years of leadership experience in quality, product assurance or reliability within aerospace, defense technology or high-reliability manufacturing.
Demonstrated success leading quality through prototype or new product introduction and into sustained production.
Proven ability to build and scale quality teams and systems while supporting fast-paced development and manufacturing operations.
Deep expertise in containment, root cause analysis, MRB, corrective and preventive action, and continuous improvement.
Strong working knowledge of AS9100 and ISO 9001, with practical implementation and audit leadership experience.
Experience with complex assembly, inspection, configuration control, traceability and product acceptance.
Ability to influence and challenge senior leaders constructively across Engineering, Production and Supply Chain.
A hands-on leadership style and sound technical judgment, balancing timely execution with clear quality standards and accountability.
Preferred
Direct experience taking a new aircraft program from prototype through production launch and rate ramp.
Experience establishing quality capability at a new manufacturing facility or transferring production between sites.
Experience in aircraft final assembly, systems integration, production test and reliability improvement.
Experience deploying digital quality systems, statistical process controls and data-driven defect prevention.
Advanced degree in engineering, quality or a related technical discipline.
Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
