Prototype and Development Manufacturing Supervisor

Prototype And Development Manufacturing Supervisor

At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in unmanned aircraft systems. Our team of engineers and innovators is developing cutting-edge autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology - solving complex challenges that matter.

We're building the future of UAS capabilities, and we're looking for exceptional talent to join us. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on next-generation flight systems, you belong here.

The Prototype and Development Supervisor leads day-to-day execution across prototype build and systems integration activities, ensuring development work is safe, disciplined, coordinated, and learning-focused.

This role owns people leadership, daily priorities, and execution flow across Development and Systems Integration technicians, while respecting technical risk authority held by senior technical staff.

This role involves working closely with various engineering disciplines, production staff as needed, and operations teams to support expected outcomes.

Key Responsibilities:

Development & Integration Execution

Own daily execution across prototype build and systems integration work

Coordinate priorities across Development and Integration to maintain a tight learning loop

Ensure smooth handoff from prototype build ? system integration ? test

Balance competing demands across multiple programs and value streams

People Leadership

Directly manage Development and Systems Integration Technicians

Set clear expectations, provide coaching, and address performance issues

Support skill development and readiness for promotion

Ensure staffing and coverage align with development priorities

Safety & Discipline

Enforce safety procedures during powered, integrated, and flight-capable work

Ensure development discipline (documentation, configuration awareness, escalation)

Support stop-work decisions when safety or risk thresholds are exceeded

Cross-Functional Coordination

Partner with Engineering to align execution with design intent

Coordinate with Flight Test for readiness and scheduling

Work with Manufacturing to support clean prototype ? production transitions

Continuous Improvement

Improve development execution cadence and predictability

Identify friction in handoffs and remove blockers

Support standardization without suppressing learning

Decision Authority

Sets daily priorities and task sequencing

Assigns work across Development and Integration teams

Escalates technical risk decisions appropriately

Recommends staffing and development actions

Required Qualifications:

58+ years in aerospace, UAV, robotics, or advanced development environments

Prior experience leading technical teams (supervisor or lead)

Strong understanding of prototype build, integration, and test workflows

Proven ability to lead in ambiguous, fast-changing environments

Strong communication and conflict-resolution skills

Safety-first mindset

Pay range for this role

$104,000 - $118,000 USD

What's in it for you:

Benefits:

• Competitive total compensation package
• Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.
• 401k with company-match
• 3 weeks of paid time off each year
• 40 hours of sick time
• 12 annual company holidays

Why Join Zone 5 Technologies?

• Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.
• Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what's possible.
• Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be a part of a dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team!