Our innovative startup seeks driven, high-performance, high-energy independent achievers who can work in a multidisciplinary team to build a groundbreaking electric propulsion platform that will be the foundation for a range of high performance ultra quiet vertical flight systems.

Overview 

MagLev Aero is seeking a hands-on manufacturing and supply chain lead to accelerate our transition from prototype to scalable production, as part of our participation in DARPA’s Embedded Entrepreneurship Initiative (EEI). This role is funded under the EEI program and is focused on preparing our advanced propulsion systems for low-rate initial production (LRIP), with an emphasis on make/buy strategy, supplier engagement and management, and manufacturability. The Manufacturing & Supply Chain Transition Lead will work closely with the Mag Lev Aero team, the DARPA Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) team, and the DARPA Senior Commercial Advisor (SCA). 

Responsibilities 

• Lead manufacturing readiness strategy, transition roadmap, supply chain framework, and execution of scalable processes 

• Define make/buy decisions and evaluate sourcing options 

• Develop scalable production plans and manufacturing milestones 

• Engage, vet, and onboard qualified vendors and manufacturing partners 

• Establish and maintain key supplier relationships, including performance tracking and risk management 

• Support creation of eBOMs, create mBOMs and generate production cost models 

• Prepare onshoring strategies for controlled and restricted technology products 

• Support design for manufacturability and assembly (DFM/DFA) initiatives 

• Conduct supplier audits and track production readiness 

• Collaborate closely with MagLev Aero’s engineering and executive teams to ensure manufacturability and design-for-production alignment 

• Coordinate with the DARPA CSO and DARPA SCA to align commercialization and supply readiness objectives 

• Provide inputs to technical data packages and support system qualification planning 

• Support establishment of production documentation, CM, and part traceability systems  

• 10+ years in manufacturing engineering or supply chain roles, with experience in leadership responsibilities in production transition 

• Aerospace, propulsion, or VTOL/UAV experience strongly preferred 

• Strong understanding of aerospace supplier ecosystems 

• Demonstrated ability to build and manage supplier relationships from prototype to production phases 

• Preferred experience developing pilot production of complex electro-mechanical or propulsion systems 

• Experience ramping prototype to production at a startup or small company 

• Familiarity with export control, ITAR and/or CUI and sensitive data restrictions 

• Strong analytical and organizational skills; comfort with ambiguity 

• Prior experience with government contracts, quality systems, and supplier qualification 

• U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residency required (per DARPA eligibility) 

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.