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- Tasks: Lead and scale prototype production operations across multiple sites.
- Company: Join a cutting-edge robotics company focused on humanoid technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy a fast-paced environment with real ownership and global impact.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of innovation, driving rapid prototype development.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in prototype manufacturing with leadership experience required.
- Other info: Work collaboratively with engineers and operators in a dynamic setting.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 ÂŁ per year.
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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Head of Prototype Production Operations employer: Humanoid
Contact Detail:
Humanoid Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Prototype Production Operations
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with agile manufacturing processes, as this role demands a fast-paced environment. Research how other companies have successfully scaled their prototype production and be ready to discuss these examples during your interactions with us.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the robotics, automotive, or aerospace industries. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with others who have experience in prototype manufacturing, which can provide you with valuable insights and potential referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-time scenarios. Think of specific instances where you've resolved issues quickly in a production setting, as this will showcase your ability to keep builds on track under pressure.
✨Tip Number 4
Understand the importance of collaboration between engineering and production teams. Be ready to share your thoughts on how to improve communication and efficiency between these groups, as this is crucial for the success of our prototype operations.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Prototype Production Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in prototype manufacturing and hardware production operations. Emphasise your leadership roles and any specific achievements in fast-paced environments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for robotics and your understanding of the challenges in prototype production. Mention how your skills align with the company's need for speed and quality in their operations.
Showcase Problem-Solving Skills: Provide examples in your application that demonstrate your ability to solve problems quickly and effectively. Highlight situations where you resolved issues in real-time during production processes.
Highlight Collaborative Experience: Since the role requires working closely with engineers and operators, include instances where you've successfully collaborated across teams. This will show your ability to thrive in a highly collaborative environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Humanoid
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As the Head of Prototype Production Operations, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and manage teams effectively. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully built and scaled production teams, highlighting your leadership style and how you foster a culture of speed and continuous improvement.
✨Understand the Prototype Lifecycle
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the prototype lifecycle, including BOM control and build traceability. Be ready to discuss how you've managed these processes in previous roles and how you would apply that knowledge to ensure high-quality prototype builds in a fast-paced environment.
✨Problem-Solving Under Pressure
This role requires calmness under pressure and quick problem-solving skills. Prepare to share specific instances where you resolved material, tooling, or staffing issues in real-time, ensuring that production stayed on track despite challenges.
✨Collaborate with Engineering Teams
Highlight your collaborative mindset and experience working closely with engineering teams. Be prepared to discuss how you would partner with engineers to iterate on design for assembly and manufacturability, ensuring seamless communication and alignment throughout the prototype production process.
