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 processes
U.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 CEO
Deep-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.
Additional Information
Location: Boston, USA (Hybrid; primary U.S. manufacturing site: integration facility)
This role requires routine access to TS/SCI and ITAR-controlled information
Ainabl is an Equal Opportunity Employer