Prototype and Development Manufacturing Supervisor

About the role

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. 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.

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

Requirements

• 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

$104,000 USD - $118,000 USD

Benefits

• Competitive total compensation package
• Comprehensive benefit package options including 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.