Job Description
Ainabl is the only company delivering airborne-qualified, revenue-generating quantum-secure networking systems today. With a clear path to licensing and backlog, we are scaling from early Phase-0 units in 2026-2027 to full constellation delivery by 2030.
We seek an exceptional Supply Chain Lead to own the end-to-end sourcing, qualification, and dual-sourcing strategy for the high-performance permanent magnets, cryogenic components, and precision opto-mechanical assemblies that enable our trapped-ion quantum transceivers to meet the most demanding airborne SWaP and reliability requirements.
Reporting to the COO and partnering closely with the CTO and Director Certification, you will de-risk and scale the most critical non-silicon elements of the bill-of-materials as we move from qNIC-200 (2026) → qNIC-300/500/1000 (2027–2030).
Responsibilities
Own supplier relationships and qualification for rare-earth permanent magnets (NdFeB/DyTb alloys), μ-metal shielding, ion-trap assemblies, and cryogenic sub-systems
Build and execute a U.S./UK dual-source strategy with full ITAR/CMMC 2.0 compliance
Drive second-source qualification for all magnet grades and cryogenic components by Q2 2027
Negotiate long-term agreements (LTAs) and SLAs with tier-1 magnet producers, Oxford Instruments, Bluefors, and precision machining partners
Implement supplier quality systems, incoming inspection protocols, and traceability for defense-grade hardware
Manage CAPEX planning and make/buy decisions for potential in-house magnet processing or finishing lines (2028+)
Collaborate with Systems Engineering on SWaP optimization and vibration-tolerant magnetic designs
Support SBIR/STTR and Critical Materials Institute grant applications for domestic magnet supply-chain resilience
Requirements
Qualifications
12+ years in technical supply chain leadership for permanent magnets, rare-earth materials, or precision cryogenic hardware
Proven track record scaling advanced magnetic materials or cryogenic systems from R&D to high-volume production
Deep existing relationships with leading NdFeB/DyTb magnet manufacturers and coating/finishing houses (U.S., Japan, Europe)
Experience implementing CMMC 2.0, ITAR, and DFARS-compliant supply chains
Demonstrated success qualifying second sources under DoD or aerospace oversight
Preferred Skills
Prior role in defense/aerospace (permanent magnets for actuators, sensors, or RF systems)
Hands-on experience with hydrogen processing, calciothermic reduction, or sintering of high-performance rare-earth magnets
Active or recent TS/SCI strongly preferred (ability to obtain mandatory)
U.S. citizenship required (ITAR)
Why Join Ainabl?
Be part of a mission-driven team delivering unbreakable quantum-secure communications for 6th-gen platforms
Work on groundbreaking quantum hardware with global impact and defense advancements
Competitive salary ($220–$300K base), meaningful equity (0.8–1.5%), and full benefits
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
Collaborate with DARPA alumni, ex-Northrop/Raytheon executives, and world-class quantum physicists
Shape the most critical non-silicon supply chain in defense quantum technology
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 2026
About the Company
At Ainabl, we are the only team shipping airborne-qualified quantum networking hardware today. We are seeking an experienced Supply Chain Lead to secure and scale the advanced magnetic and cryogenic materials that make our systems possible. If you have built and defended rare-earth or cryogenic supply chains at scale, this is your opportunity to own the physical foundation of the 21st-century battlespace datalink.
Additional Information
Location: Boston, MA, USA (Hybrid/Remote-eligible; primary hub: Cambridge, MA; regular travel to partner sites required)
This role involves access to ITAR-controlled information; U.S. citizenship required
Ainabl is an Equal Opportunity Employer