Director / VP of Manufacturing – Next-Generation Airborne Quantum Systems

Application Deadline: Open until filled (target start: February–March 2026)Job Type Workspace Hybrid Job Description Ainabl is scaling the world’s first airborne-qualified, fault-tolerant quantum-secure networking systems from early Phase-0 units in 2026-2027 to full constellation delivery by 2030.We are seeking a Director/VP of Manufacturing to stand up and lead defense-grade integration, test, and production operations for our trapped‑ion quantum transceivers (qNIC-200 → qNIC-1000 series). You will own the integration facility (CMMC 2.0), build the processes and team that deliver DO-160G/MIL-STD-qualified hardware to the Top-tier (e.g., Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, Dassault, and allied primes), and scale output from 500 units/year by 2030.

Responsibilities: Build and lead the quantum hardware integration and test facility (cleanroom + cryogenic test cells)Own production planning, yield improvement, and cost reduction across the qNIC-200/300/500/1000 roadmap Implement FAR/DFARS-compliant EVMS, quality systems (AS9100-equivalent), and full traceability Scale assembly, alignment, and cryogenic qualification of ion-trap modules, optical sub-systems, and permanent-magnet shielding assemblies Drive transition from engineering prototypes to rate production while maintaining airborne environmental qualifications Lead make/buy decisions and potential in-house finishing of critical magnetic components (2028+)Hire, mentor, and grow a 30–50 person manufacturing engineering and technician organization by 2030 Partner with Supply Chain Lead on vendor qualification and incoming quality control Requirements

Qualifications: 15+ years building and scaling precision electro-optical, cryogenic, or quantum hardware manufacturing operations Proven track record taking novel airborne or space-qualified systems from early stages TRL → TRL 9 and rate production Prior leadership of AS9100/DO-160/MIL-STD manufacturing environments Experience standing up CMMC 2.0-compliant facilities and processesU.S. citizenship and ability to obtain/maintain TS/SCI required (ITAR)

Preferred Skills: Previous VP Manufacturing or Director of Operations role at IonQ, Quantinuum, Rigetti, BAE Systems Airborne, Northrop Grumman Mission Systems, or equivalent Hands‑on experience with trapped‑ion, superconducting, or photonic quantum hardware integration Deep expertise in permanent‑magnet assembly, cryogenic integration, or vibration‑sensitive optical alignment Active TS/SCI strongly preferred Why Join Ainabl? Own manufacturing scale‑up for the defining quantum‑secure datalink programs of the 21st century Executive compensation ($280–$380K base + 1.5–3% equity) with full benefits Work directly with ex‑DARPA PMs, Northrop/Raytheon alumni, and the primes integrating our hardware into every 6th‑gen platform Accelerate your network and impact inside the most important U.S. and allied programs Recruitment Process Application Review: Shortlist notified within 3 business days Initial Screen: 45‑minute call with CEODeep‑Dive Interview: 2‑hour session with CEO and leadership Customer/Clearance Validation & References Offer: Verbal offer within 48 hours of final interview Target Start: February–March 2026 About the Company At Ainabl, we are the only team shipping airborne‑qualified quantum networking hardware today. We are seeking a world‑class manufacturing leader to build the production engine that will deliver thousands of quantum‑secure nodes by 2030. If you have taken cutting‑edge quantum or airborne systems from lab to factory, this is your opportunity.

Location: Boston, USA (Hybrid; primary U.S. manufacturing site: integration facility)This role requires routine access to TS/SCI and ITAR‑controlled information