Head of Prototype Production Operations

About the Role

As our Head of Prototype Production Operations, you will be responsible for establishing and scaling our prototype manufacturing capabilities in close collaboration with hardware engineering, systems integration, test, advanced manufacturing, and supply chain. You’ll lead teams, build infrastructure, and implement agile processes that allow us to go from design to integrated prototype at startup speed—without compromising on quality or safety.

This is not a slow, staged production environment—it’s a scrappy, fast-paced, engineering-driven operation where we’re solving problems in real time and pushing hardware out the door every week.

Key Responsibilities

Build and Lead the Prototype Production Function

• Stand up and scale production operations in each R&D location.

• Hire and manage a high-performing team of prototype technicians, build leads, and production planners.

• Create a culture of speed, ownership, and continuous improvement.

Drive Fast, Reliable Prototype Builds

• Translate evolving hardware designs into repeatable, high-quality prototype builds.

• Implement just-in-time, high-mix, low-volume build processes across sites.

• Partner with engineering to iterate on design for assembly and manufacturability (DFA/DFM).

• Unblock builds fast—resolve material, tooling, or staffing issues in real time.

Coordinate with Supply Chain & Logistics

• Align tightly with procurement and logistics to ensure component availability.

• Plan and manage build schedules that keep pace with R&D iteration cycles.

• Track build progress and inventory across Boston, London, and Vancouver.

Own Production Systems & Infrastructure

• Stand up tools for production planning, work orders, quality tracking, and issue management.

• Set up and maintain safe, efficient prototype labs and assembly areas.

• Define and implement best practices for prototype traceability, change control, and rework.

Support the Path to Scalable Manufacturing

• Build bridges to our future low-rate and high-rate production efforts.

• Provide feedback to product, engineering, and advanced manufacturing teams on early scaling risks.

• Help define the right time to shift from prototype to pilot to production lines.

What We’re Looking For

8+ years in prototype manufacturing or hardware production ops, with experience leading fast-paced build teams.

Experience in robotics, automotive, aerospace, or complex electromechanical systems.

Proven ability to lead and scale agile, multi-site prototype production.

Deep understanding of prototype lifecycle, BOM control, work order processes, and build traceability.

• Highly collaborative mindset—able to work shoulder-to-shoulder with engineers and operators.
• Calm under pressure. You solve problems fast and keep the build on track, no matter what.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems, build planning tools, and digital tracking systems.

Our London office is located at 5 Merchant Square. 5th Floor – SKL Robotics. London, W2 1AS

Why Join Us?

• Speed is our edge. You’ll be the operations engine that keeps us moving fast from concept to prototype to product.
• Cutting-edge robotics. You’ll be at the heart of the team building the world’s most capable humanoid robots.
• Global scope. You’ll lead a production function across three international sites.
• Real ownership. If you’re hands-on, execution-focused, and energised by early-stage momentum—this is your moment.
• We’re looking for someone who can move fast, lead from the front, and scale a high-performance prototype function. If that sounds like you, we’d love to meet.