Sr. Director, Prototype and Advanced Manufacturing

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Define and execute the company's prototype and advanced manufacturing strategy
• Build and manage a high-performing organization across battery pack assembly, component fabrication, vehicle builds, and advanced manufacturing
• Drive alignment between engineering, program management, validation, and manufacturing teams
• Oversee prototype pack and module builds, including laser welding, 3D printing, fixturing, and precision assembly
• Ensure robust build processes to support rapid design iteration and validation
• Establish and maintain prototype quality standards and traceability
• Manage in-house machining, welding, and laser cutting/welding capabilities
• Oversee design and fabrication of prototype fixtures, jigs, and tooling
• Implement continuous improvement to increase throughput, accuracy, and efficiency
• Direct prototype vehicle build operations, including integration of battery packs, drivetrains, and supporting systems
• Collaborate with vehicle engineering and validation teams to meet program milestones
• Ensure safety, compliance, and repeatability in prototype vehicle builds
• Lead the specification, sourcing, and deployment of production equipment for both cell and pack assembly lines
• Develop capital investment strategies and equipment roadmaps aligned with production growth
• Work with suppliers and integrators to deliver state-of-the-art manufacturing systems
• Ensure equipment meets safety, throughput, quality, and cost targets for future scale-up
• Develop and manage budgets, capital plans, and facility requirements for prototype and advanced manufacturing operations
• Establish KPIs for build quality, throughput, and resource utilization
• Mentor engineering and technician staff, fostering a culture of safety, innovation, and accountability
• Present regular updates to executive leadership on status, risks, and resourcing

WE ARE SEEKING A LEADER WITH:

• Strong organizational, decision-making, and problem-solving skills
• Demonstrated ability to coach and develop technical teams
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration abilities
• A detail-oriented, hands-on leader with the ability to thrive in fast-paced environments

Experience

Preferred

• Knowledge of fabrication processes: machining, welding, laser welding/cutting, 3D printing, fixture/tooling design
• Familiarity with CAD (NX), Teamcenter, and PLM systems
• Knowledge of fabrication processes: machining, welding, laser welding/cutting, 3D printing, fixture/tooling design
• 12+ years of progressive experience in prototyping, fabrication, or advanced manufacturing
• Proven leadership experience managing multi-disciplinary engineering and build teams
• Direct experience with battery pack assembly, machining/welding processes, and prototype vehicle builds strongly preferred

Education

Preferred

• Bachelors or better in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Equal Opportunity Employer
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