Prototype and Production Lead

Are you a technical leader with a passion for transforming cutting-edge designs into robust, field-ready products? We are looking for a highly capable Prototype Production Lead to drive the assembly, and deployment of our utilitarian Uncrewed Air Systems (UAS), guiding them from initial prototype production through to successful customer demonstration in demanding, real-world conditions.

This is a pivotal role in our R&D team based in Mount Maunganui, where your leadership and coordination skills will be essential to bridging the gap between engineering intent and production reality.

**The Role**:
As the Prototype Production Lead, your primary focus will be on **leadership and coordination**. You will manage a skilled, **multidisciplinary team** of production engineers and technicians, ensuring all components, processes, and logistics are perfectly aligned to support successful production deliveries. You will be the force that transforms innovative engineering designs into reliable, high quality, and robust products.

**Key Responsibilities**:
**Team Leadership & Technical Coordination**
- ** Lead, mentor, and strategically guide** a diverse productionteam, including specialists in aircraft, avionics, mechanical, and electrical systems.
- Translate complex engineering intent into **executable build plans**, effectively balancing timelines, resources, and technical feasibility.
- Set technical goals, provide performance feedback, and foster **professional development** to continuously upskill the team.

**Prototype Development & Build Oversight**
- Direct the production of **functional prototypes** and low-rate production units for internal and customer-facing trials.
- Ensure all builds align with operational requirements, with a strong focus on **durability, maintainability, and real-world performance**.
- Oversee testing, resolve build issues, and ensure quality readiness for deployment in **harsh environmental conditions**.

**Logistics, Procurement & Process Improvement**
- Manage the **sourcing, ordering, and tracking** of all prototype components, optimizing inventory for agile build cycles.
- Develop and enhance build **workflows and workshop operations** to drive efficiency, traceability, and repeatability, supporting the transition to volume production.

**Health, Safety & Quality Assurance**
- ** Lead and promote safe work practices** across all workshop activities, aligning with the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015.
- Enforce rigorous **quality and safety standards** across all prototype builds, including implementing sign-off procedures and verifying compliance.
- Lead **fault investigations** and drive corrective actions to improve system reliability and reduce errors.

**Qualifications & Role Requirements**:
**Essential Qualifications**
- A relevant qualification in **Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, or similar)**, or extensive, demonstrated experience in a similar technical lead role.
- Proven experience **managing a multidisciplinary technical team** in a fast-paced R&D or production environment.
- A strong background in **prototype development, assembly, and testing** of complex electromechanical or uncrewed systems.

**Required Skills & Experience**
- Demonstrated ability to **translate technical requirements into executable production plans** and manage resource allocation effectively.
- In-depth knowledge of **inventory management, procurement, and supply chain logistics** for technical components.
- Familiarity with **Quality Assurance (QA) and Health & Safety (H&S)** standards and procedures in a workshop/production environment
- Exceptional **communication, coordination, and problem-solving skills**.
- A proactive, hands-on leadership style with a relentless focus on **quality, operational readiness, and continuous process improvement**.

LI-DNP