Prototype Supervisor

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc. • San Luis Obispo, CA

3d • $80,000 - $94,000 • Onsite

About The Position

A Prototype Supervisor will support and guide manufacturing operations by coordinating team activities, ensuring production efficiency, assembling components, and upholding quality and safety standards. This is a working lead position, combining hands-on Prototype and Pre-Production responsibilities with team leadership and oversight. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong technical skills, leadership capability, and the ability to drive team performance in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Requirements

• 5+ years of hands-on experience in a manufacturing environment or equivalent.
• Proven track record leading cross functional teams, resource allocation and management
• Strong technical aptitude, including proficiency in wiring, soldering, parts fabrication, and assembly.
• Ability to interpret and follow written instructions, schematics, and technical documentation.
• Strong collaboration skills with the ability to remain calm and professional in a fast-paced environment.
• Self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple tasks and work with minimal supervision.
• Strong work ethic, reliability, and ability to meet daily manufacturing goals.
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to work onsite as required.

Nice To Haves

• 6-10+ years of industry experience, including leading small manufacturing teams
• 6-10+ years of experience in a dynamic, fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Experience operating in an ISO 9001 or AS9100 quality environment
• Excellent aptitude for critical thinking and problem solving, with a strong attention to detail
• Excellent communication skills with an ability to collaborate and remain professional in a fast-paced environment
• Self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple tasks and work with minimal supervision.
• Excellent work ethic and attendance
• Ability to flex work schedule and support overtime to accommodate project needs
• Technical writing experience

Responsibilities

• Lead a small cross-functional team of Engineering Technicians, providing hands-on daily support to develop and mentor team members.
• Host daily stand-up meetings to ensure goals are communicated clearly to technician team
• Daily reporting of manufacturing status and goals to key stakeholders, including Program Management and Prototype Manager
• Work with Prototype Manager and Program Manager to schedule overtime as required to ensure program needs are met
• Conduct annual performance reviews for direct reports.
• Approve timecards and ensure compliance with break and lunch regulations.
• Partner with HR to manage employee performance, including disciplinary actions and recognition programs.
• Awareness and ownership of build schedule and product completion status throughout lifecycle
• Ensure team has necessary raw materials, tools, consumables, and equipment to meet daily deliverables.
• Track training and skill development within the team to maintain required levels of skillset redundancy across programs.
• Identify and escalate roadblocks, production or material issues, acting as a liaison between the Engineering Technicians, Prototype Manager, Engineering Build Manager and the Program Manager.
• Work with Prototype Manager to escalate Engineering Technician resource needs across projects to ensure schedule adherence
• Ensure team follows written work instructions to assemble and document the build of each assembly, following AS9100 standards and Project requirements
• Help create and review update process specific build documentation and provide engineering feedback to ensure future manufacturability of assemblies
• Ensure team adheres to safety requirements and promote a safety-first culture
• Support engineering with Prototype and Pre-LRIP manufacturing redlines and updates to technical drawings and provide design feedback as required
• Lead by example, promote and maintain a culture of trust and respect for all ESAero employees
• Support other functions of the company depending on skills, workload and prioritization

Benefits

• Choose from three health, dental, and vision plans - including a 100% employer-paid option covering both employees and their families.
• 120 hours of PTO, 80 hours accrued plus an additional 40 hours of holiday break pay in addition to Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day off.
• $25,000 employer-paid life insurance policy, with the option to purchase additional coverage for employees and their families.
• Access optional benefits such as Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness with Skin Cancer coverage.
• Take advantage of a tax-advantaged HSA to manage medical expenses.
• 401(k) with a company match to support your financial future.
• 9 paid holidays throughout the year.
• A casual dress code, complimentary snacks, and a welcoming company culture.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED