Head of Aircraft Production (X-BAT)

About the role

Shield AI, a venture-backed defense technology company, is looking for a hands-on manufacturing leader to take its X-BAT aircraft from early prototype builds through production launch into rate production. You will lead prototype build execution and the manufacturing setup of the new Seattle-area facility, X-Forge 3, build the production team, set up the factory's operating system and deliver the readiness needed to scale aircraft production safely, reliably and efficiently. The role works closely with Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain and Program Management.

Key responsibilities

• 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 on build schedules, resource plans and milestones, and work with Engineering and Manufacturing Engineering through build-test-learn cycles
• Plan and execute pre-series builds to prove tooling, work instructions, material flow, process controls and workforce readiness
• Maintain configuration discipline and aircraft traceability throughout development builds with Engineering and Quality
• Lead manufacturing setup and operational readiness at X-Forge 3, including factory layout, equipment installation, commissioning and production flow
• Recruit, develop and lead the production organization, and own staffing, training and capacity plans
• Drive launch readiness across people, tooling, materials, processes and quality, and transfer build knowledge to the production operation
• Own production execution against safety, quality, delivery and cost targets, with daily routines, visual management and escalation processes
• Improve throughput, first-pass quality and schedule adherence using Lean methods and structured problem-solving
• Align material availability and outsourced manufacturing with the production plan, and deploy digital manufacturing tools and automation

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, manufacturing or a related technical field
• 10+ years in aerospace or comparable advanced manufacturing, including at least 5 years leading production teams
• Demonstrated experience leading prototype or NPI builds and carrying a product into sustained production
• Proven ability to build and scale manufacturing operations, including workforce development and capacity planning
• Experience leading complex assembly and integration with demanding quality, configuration and traceability requirements
• Track record of improving safety, quality, delivery and cost through Lean manufacturing
• Hands-on leadership style, able to move between long-term factory planning and detailed floor problem-solving

Preferred qualifications

• Direct experience taking a new aircraft program from prototype through initial and rate production
• Experience setting up a new manufacturing facility or transferring production between sites
• Familiarity with AS9100 and digital manufacturing and traceability tools
• Experience managing production interfaces with outsourced manufacturers and supplier networks
• Advanced degree or training in manufacturing leadership, program management or production launch