Technical Program Manager

Technical Program ManagerWe are seeking an experienced Technical Program Manager to lead the development, maturation, and industrialization of advanced joining technologies for high-performance thermoplastic composite aircraft structures. This role will be responsible for defining and executing technology development programs focused on joining carbon fiber reinforced PEEK, PEKK, and other high-performance thermoplastic materials using welding and consolidation processes. Working closely with engineering, manufacturing, materials, and certification teams, this individual will establish robust manufacturing processes and generate the data necessary to support future aircraft structural applications. The ideal candidate combines deep technical expertise in composite materials and joining technologies with extensive aerospace program leadership experience and a passion for hands-on technology development.Responsibilities:Lead the technical strategy, planning, and execution of development programs focused on thermoplastic composite joining technologies for aerospace structures.Develop and mature manufacturing processes utilizing resistance, induction, ultrasonic, laser, conduction, and other thermoplastic welding and consolidation methods.Define and execute material characterization and test programs to establish preliminary design allowables and joint performance databases across relevant loading and environmental conditions.Develop formal manufacturing process specifications, work instructions, qualification plans, and supporting technical documentation suitable for production and certification.Coordinate multidisciplinary teams spanning design engineering, materials engineering, manufacturing engineering, testing, quality, and certification to achieve program objectives.Provide technical leadership in process development, fixture design, equipment selection, process controls, and manufacturability for thermoplastic composite assemblies.Serve as the technical interface with equipment suppliers, research organizations, universities, and industry partners supporting technology maturation.Drive project execution through schedule management, technical risk reduction, resource planning, milestone tracking, and executive communication.Remain actively engaged in laboratory and manufacturing development activities, participating directly in process development, testing, troubleshooting, and validation.Required:Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Materials Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical discipline. Advanced Degree preferred10+ years of experience developing aerospace structures, manufacturing processes, or advanced composite technologiesDemonstrated experience leading multidisciplinary aerospace technology development programs from concept through qualificationDeep understanding of high-performance thermoplastic composites including carbon fiber reinforced PEEK, PEKK, PEAK, and related materialsExtensive experience with thermoplastic joining technologies including one or more of: resistance welding, induction welding, ultrasonic welding, laser welding, thermal consolidation, automated joining processesStrong understanding of aerospace materials and process development, qualification methodologies, and certification best practicesExperience developing manufacturing process specifications, qualification plans, and engineering standardsFamiliarity with composite structural testing, mechanical characterization, environmental conditioning, and statistical analysis of material performanceExcellent technical communication skills with demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional engineering teams and communicate with executive leadershipWillingness to work onsite in Santa Cruz, California, with significant laboratory and manufacturing floor engagementDesired:20+ years of experience developing aerospace structures, manufacturing processes, or advanced composite technologiesExperience developing primary or secondary aircraft composite structuresKnowledge of FAA or military certification approaches for composite structuresExperience establishing structural design allowables and supporting certification by analysis and testFamiliarity with automated composite manufacturing equipment, robotics, and process automationExperience working with research organizations, government programs, or technology maturation initiativesDemonstrated success transitioning emerging manufacturing technologies into production environmentsAdditional Information:Compensation at Joby is a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $156,000 - $214,500. The compensation package will be determined by job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.Joby also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan with a company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and more.Joby is an Equal Opportunity Employer