New Product Introduction Lead (Aerospace & Defense)

About Us

Founded in 2015 to develop the world's first industrially scalable laser metal additive manufacturing solution, VulcanForms is reshaping how the world manufactures critical products. We build and operate advanced digital infrastructure that enables innovation, accelerates growth, and supports sustainability across aerospace, defense, medical, and other essential industries. Through our vertically integrated capabilities, including scalable additive manufacturing and precision machining, we deliver true end-to-end production at scale by combining cutting-edge technology with a foundation of proven industrial craftsmanship. Our team brings deep expertise in manufacturing, materials science, software, automation, and operations, united by a shared commitment to quality, curiosity, and accountability. We foster an inclusive culture where people take ownership, solve meaningful problems, and continuously learn, because we believe diverse perspectives lead to better outcomes.

Job Purpose

The NPI Lead serves as the technical authority for manufacturing readiness, ensuring complex products are transitioned into production with capable, validated, and cost-effective processes. This role bridges Applications Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing Engineering, and Operations to enable successful product launches in a high-precision, industrial environment.

The NPI Lead is the primary driver of technical execution, partnering closely with Project Managers to integrate technical milestones, risks, and deliverables into the overall program plan. You will translate sophisticated design intent into manufacturable reality-driving readiness across equipment qualification, post-processing integration, and rigorous inspection methods for high-precision components in Aerospace and Defense applications.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the technical execution of NPI activities from early customer feasibility through production release, ensuring strict alignment with AS9100 and ITAR requirements.
• Serve as the primary technical interface between VulcanForms and Aerospace/Defense customers, translating complex mission-critical requirements into scalable manufacturing solutions.
• Own the end-to-end technical NPI process, including design transfer, prototyping, and formal process qualification.
• Coordinate input from Engineering, Quality, and Operations to ensure manufacturability and seamless post-processing integration (HIP, heat treatment, machining).
• Proactively identify technical risks in the manufacturing sequence - particularly those affecting flight safety or structural integrity - and develop robust mitigation plans.
• Provide technical guidance and development for project engineers within the NPI function.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in manufacturing or a related technical role, with at least 3+ years specifically within the Aerospace or Defense industries.
• 5+ years of experience in New Product Introduction (NPI) or Process Development for complex, high-precision components.
• Deep expertise working under strict quality system standards such as AS9100, ISO 9100, or NADCAP.
• Practical knowledge of traditional "Aero-grade" manufacturing workflows, including precision machining, specialized finishing, and assembly.
• Expert-level ability to interpret customer specifications, engineering drawings, GD&T, and tolerance stacks.
• Familiarity with ITAR/EAR regulations and the handling of sensitive defense-related technical data.

Preferred Qualifications

• 3+ years supporting Metal Additive Manufacturing (LPBF, DED, or Binder Jetting) and a deep understanding of DfAM (Design for Additive Manufacturing).
• Experience with CMM, blue light scanning, CT scanning, and non-destructive testing (NDT) methods.
• Strong working knowledge of process validation, capability studies (Cp/Cpk), and Measurement System Analysis (MSA).
• Familiarity with aerospace post-processing such as Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP), vacuum heat treatment, and specialized surface coatings.

VulcanForms offers a competitive salary and equity package. Actual compensation is based on factors such as the candidate's skills, qualifications, and experience. In addition, VulcanForms provides comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; generous paid time off; and a 401(k) plan with company match.


The annual base salary range for this position is $129,500.00 to $178,000.00.