Director Experimental Fabrication

Director Experimental Fabrication

The Director, Experimental Fabrication (EXP) leads a highly skilled and diverse team responsible for the fabrication of the first-of-type aircraft, test articles, marketing mockups, and other company commissioned bespoke builds. This role is pivotal in supporting the development, certification, and operational validation of advanced aviation technologies. The director is responsible for establishing and evolving the capabilities, workforce, and infrastructure necessary to deliver these projects with precision and efficiency, driving shorter time-to-market and high-quality outcomes.

Duties and Responsibilities / Essential Functions :

• Provide strategic direction for EXP operations that align with Product Development objectives and program goals.
• Provides direct oversight of 57 managers, who collectively lead a team of 100+ full-time employees.
• Effectively supports a broad range of operational areas, including Platform Management, Fabrication, Avionics & Electrical, Composites / Tooling & Finishing, and Assembly / Mechanics.
• Work cross-functionally with teams across Product Development, Production, Accounting, Quality, Supply Chain, and Customer Support to align efforts and achieve company objectives.
• Ensure EXP organization goals align with and support companywide organizational objectives, including certification timelines and innovation targets.
• Develop capacity plans, skill gap review, and resource estimates to execute program timelines to plan.
• Responsible for setting long-term talent vision, providing direct mentorship, and ensuring access to specialized equipment and processes to support successful project delivery. Foster a culture of continuous improvement and drive the team to reach stretch goals to become more efficient.
• Balance team capacity with the needs of the business.
• Oversee the annual planning, staffing, and budgeting for the EXP department.
• Ensure that test articles comply with relevant company design and FAA certification requirements.
• Establish and maintain rigorous safety protocols and risk management practices for EXP operations.
• Influence, mentor, and lead individuals and teams from across the company and within the industry.
• Develop and implement training programs to uphold the highest standards of skill, proficiency, and safety.
• Represent the organization in high-level engagements with internal and external stakeholders to advance strategic priorities.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with Engineering and Flight Test teams to ensure alignment and collaboration.
• Other requirements as defined by the SVP, Product Development

Qualifications :

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and / or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and / or Experience :

Education :

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Aviation Science, or a related technical field.

Experience :

Minimum of 12 years of professional experience, including at least 7 years in the general aviation industry.

At least 7 years of leadership experience managing high-performing teams or programs.

Demonstrated success in new product development initiatives.

Experience with prototype aircraft design and / or production preferred.

Familiarity with component conformity, reliability, and qualification testing.

Direct involvement in FAA certification programs at the aircraft level under CFR Parts 23, 25, 27, or 29.

Knowledge of composite materials, advanced manufacturing methods, and aviation regulations.

Proven track record of establishing development program schedules.

Experience managing capital projects for new equipment acquisition or facility construction.

Skills :

Effective leadership of diverse teams, including both hourly and salaried personnel.

Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

In-depth knowledge of aircraft systems and design.

Ability to manage multiple priorities and competing demands in a high-stress environment.

Working knowledge of shipping and logistics for aviation components and consumables.

Experience with mock-up creation, rapid prototyping, and proof-of-concept builds.

Awareness of emerging aircraft technologies and evolving aerospace regulations.

Ability to build and maintain strong professional relationships across teams.

Commitment to continuous learning and development.

Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to engage effectively at all organizational levels.

Proficiency with CAD software, MES / work order systems, and Microsoft Office tools.

Familiarity with applicable regulatory standards (e.g., FAR, Part 23 / 25).

Certifications :

FAA Aircraft Maintenance Technician (A&P, AMT, or IA) certification preferred.

Project Management Professional (PMP) certification preferred.

Competencies :

Integrity

Business Insight

Ethical Persona

Interpersonal Savvy

Courage

Builds Networks

Attracts Top Talent

Action Oriented

Our Benefits : Cirrus provides a range of exciting benefits, including :

401(k) Plan : Dollar-for-dollar match up to 5% after 90 days, with 100% vesting.

Employer-Paid Coverages : Group term life, short- and long-term disability insurance.

Comprehensive Health Coverage : Medical, vision, dental, with additional dependent coverage options.

Free Health Tracking : With rewards for meeting health goals.

Generous PTO : 200 hours accrued within the first year.

Employee Referral Bonus : For referring talented candidates.

Career Development : Tuition reimbursement and professional growth opportunities.

Exclusive Discounts : Access to partner and marketplace discounts.

Community & Engagement : Company and employee clubs at various locations.

These benefits are designed to support your well-being, growth, and enjoyment at Cirrus!

Other Duties :

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. Work beyond 40 hours per week may be required.

Cirrus is dedicated to a drug free work environment promoting equal employment opportunity. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, national origin, color, age, disability, religion, pregnancy, veteran status, marital and family status, sexual orientation, receipt of public assistance, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.