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Prototype & Development Manufacturing Supervisor

San Luis Obispo, California

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:

· 5–8+ 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! 

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. As required by law, we will verify the identity and employment authorization of all new employees using the E-Verify system. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under E-Verify: https://www.e-verify.gov.

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