We’re looking for a hands-on manufacturing leader to take X-BAT from early prototype builds through production launch and into rate production.
This role carries accountability across the full journey: turning lessons from development builds into a repeatable production system, then leading that operation against safety, quality, delivery and cost commitments. You’ll work closely with Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain and Program Management to make that happen.
Lead prototype builds and new product introduction
Own the day-to-day execution of X-BAT prototype and development aircraft builds, including assembly, integration, rework and build support for testing.
Partner with Program Management to establish achievable build schedules, resource plans and milestones, making constraints and trade-offs visible early.
Work with Engineering and Manufacturing Engineering through build-test-learn cycles, ensuring build issues are captured, resolved and reflected in future designs and production processes.
Plan and execute pre-series builds to prove tooling, work instructions, material flow, process controls and workforce readiness before production ramp.
Maintain configuration discipline and aircraft traceability throughout development builds in partnership with Engineering and Quality.
Establish the Seattle production operation
Lead manufacturing setup and operational readiness for X-Forge 3, working with Facilities and Manufacturing Engineering on factory layout, equipment installation, commissioning and production flow.
Recruit, develop and lead the production organization, building capable frontline leadership and a skilled aircraft assembly team.
Own production staffing, training and capacity plans, aligning investment and workforce growth with program demand.
Qualification
Bachelor’s degree in engineeringTrack record of improving safetyAbility to lead across EngineeringA hands-on leadership styleExperience in aircraft final assembly
Required
Bachelor’s degree in engineering, manufacturing or a related technical field.
10+ years of experience in aerospace or comparable advanced manufacturing, including at least 5 years leading production teams.
Demonstrated experience leading prototype or new product introduction builds and carrying a product into sustained production.
Proven ability to build and scale manufacturing operations, including workforce development, capacity planning and production systems.
Experience leading complex assembly and integration operations with demanding quality, configuration and traceability requirements.
Strong understanding of manufacturing readiness, tooling validation, material coordination and production launch.
Track record of improving safety, quality, delivery and cost through Lean manufacturing and structured problem-solving.
Ability to lead across Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain and Program Management, resolving competing priorities and driving clear accountability.
A hands-on leadership style, with the ability to move between long-term factory planning and detailed problem-solving on the floor.
Preferred
Direct experience taking a new aircraft program from prototype through initial and rate production.
Experience establishing a new manufacturing facility or transferring production between sites.
Experience in aircraft final assembly, systems integration and production test.
Familiarity with aerospace quality systems, including AS9100, and digital manufacturing and traceability tools.
Experience managing production interfaces with outsourced manufacturing partners and complex supplier networks.
Advanced degree or relevant training in manufacturing leadership, program management or production launch.
Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
