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Head of Aircraft Production (R6147)

Shield AI· Aircraft Operations Division – Production
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Seattle, WA$230k - $340kFull Time EmployeePosted 3w ago

About the role

Hands-on manufacturing leader responsible for taking X-BAT from early prototype builds through production launch and into rate production. Leads prototype builds, establishes the Seattle-area production operation (X-Forge 3), builds the production team, and delivers safe, reliable, and efficient aircraft production.

Responsibilities

  • Lead prototype builds and new product introduction: own day-to-day execution of X-BAT prototype and development aircraft builds, partner with Program Management on schedules and milestones, work with Engineering through build-test-learn cycles, plan pre-series builds, maintain configuration discipline and traceability.
  • Establish the Seattle production operation: lead manufacturing setup for X-Forge 3, recruit and develop production organization, manage staffing and capacity, drive launch readiness, transition from prototype to production.
  • Deliver and scale aircraft production: execute against safety, quality, delivery and cost targets, establish daily operating routines and visual management, improve throughput and first-pass quality, align material availability with production plan, embed permanent corrective actions, deploy digital manufacturing tools and automation, provide leadership with clear production performance view.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering, manufacturing or related technical field
  • 10+ years of experience in aerospace or advanced manufacturing, including at least 5 years leading production teams
  • Demonstrated experience leading prototype or new product introduction builds into sustained production
  • Proven ability to build and scale manufacturing operations, including workforce development and capacity planning
  • 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 problem-solving
  • Ability to lead across Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain and Program Management and drive accountability
  • Hands-on leadership style with ability to balance long-term planning and on-floor problem-solving

Skills

Required:Prototype builds and new product introductionManufacturing leadershipLean manufacturing

Benefits

  • Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
  • Temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days)
  • Salary compensation influenced by skill set, experience, licenses, and location
  • Offers contingent on cleared background and reference checks
  • Equal opportunity employer and accommodations available upon request
Last updated Oct 23, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.

About Shield AI

Autonomy for the world.

Our mission is to protect service members and civilians with intelligent systems.

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