Head of Prototype

Mach Industries Production & Prototype Manager

Founded in 2022, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 120 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.

The Role

We are seeking a highly driven and experienced Production & Prototype Manager to lead the end-to-end build of critical flight hardware and test systems. This role bridges Manufacturing Program Management, Manufacturing Engineering, and fabrication to ensure that innovative prototypes scale into high-rate production efficiently and reliably.

You will lead a multidisciplinary team through the development of fabrication processes, ensure quality and throughput standards, and manage day-to-day prototype and production operations. You will be instrumental in building the infrastructure and systems required for a world-class defense manufacturing operation.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the planning, fabrication, and testing of prototype hardware and pre-production systems.

Manage teams across multiple shifts, supporting both prototype and production builds.

Develop and maintain production schedules, staffing plans, and KPIs aligned with company targets.

Coordinate daily operations across CNC machining, welding, composites, harnessing, and assembly.

Partner with manufacturing engineering on Design-for-Manufacturability (DFM), PFMEAs, and work instructions.

Support implementation of ISO, ANS, MES, QMS, and WMS systems and standards.

Manage production budgets and capital equipment planning.

Implement lean principles and drive continuous improvement.

Support hiring, training, and development of technicians and supervisors.

Ensure facility readiness, safety compliance, and equipment uptime.

Maintain production quality standards in accordance with AS9100 and MIL-STD requirements.

Track and improve process yield, labor efficiency, and material utilization.

Collaborate cross-functionally with Quality, Engineering, and Supply Chain teams.

Required Qualifications

58 years of experience in fabrication or production within aerospace, automotive, defense, or similar sectors.

5+ years of experience managing teams in a manufacturing and prototype environment.

Strong knowledge of machining, welding, composite fabrication, and electrical harnessing.

Experience with GD&T, ASME Y14.5, and AS9100 / ISO9001 quality standards.

Proficient in manufacturing software systems (e.g., JIRA, ERP / MRP, MES, PLM).

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or related technical disciplineor equivalent experience.

Strong problem-solving skills with demonstrated ability to lead complex builds under tight timelines.

Experience managing 2-shift operations and managing large and small teams.

Experience with hiring and building a world class team.

Experience with capital equipment planning and production ramp-up.

Familiarity with MIL-STD, DoD quality standards, and government compliance protocols will be a plus.

Working knowledge of lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and 5S.

Hands-on experience in prototype through low-rate initial production (LRIP) environments.

Experience with composite bonding, robotic automation, or high-volume CNC workflows.

Preferred Qualifications

Willingness to work extended hours and weekends to meet aggressive program milestones.

Drive and enforce a culture of accountability, quality, and safety.

Lead by examplehands-on when needed, strategic when required.

Support organizational growth through scalable systems and strong leadership.

Align daily execution with long-term product and company goals.

Disclosures

This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach's total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.

Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you'd like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!