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VP of Production

VP of Production

SkywaysAustin, TX, US
8 days ago
Job type
  • Permanent
Job description

VP of Production

At Skyways, we are building a new form of air transportationwhat some call the flying car. Backed by fresh funding and a major contract from the U.S. Air Force, we're uniquely positioned to lead the next wave of aviation innovation. Our fully autonomous unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) represent a breakthrough opportunity to move goodsand soon, peoplein ways that are faster, safer, and more efficient than ever before. Unlike anyone else in the industry, our strategy blends rapid iteration with real-world deployment, and it's already paying off.

Skyways is a fast-growing startup based in Austin, TX, supported by top Silicon Valley investors including Y Combinator. Though we're early-stage, our vehicles are already in production and in the hands of paying commercial customers (see here and here ). With robust financial backing and government partnerships accelerating our momentum, there's never been a better time to join us and help build the future of transportation!

The Opportunity

Skyways is seeking a VP of Production to spearhead its high-volume manufacturing initiatives. The primary goal of this role is to build the world's largest fleet of unmanned aircraft. You will own the strategy, build the team, and deliver the systems that make scalable, high-quality aircraft production possible. This is your chance to shape the future of aerospace manufacturing from the ground up and define how next-generation aircraft are built.

What You'll Do :

  • Develop and execute Skyways' production strategy, scaling from low volume to mass production.
  • Design and implement manufacturing systems, processes, and tools for efficiency and repeatability.
  • Build and lead high-performing teams across production, manufacturing engineering, quality and operations.
  • Partner with engineering to ensure manufacturability, quality, and seamless design handoffs.
  • Drive continuous improvement and lean manufacturing practices throughout the organization.
  • Build a sustainable supply chain designed for volumes that are unheard of in this industry.
  • Drive BOM costs down.
  • Own production KPIsthroughput, yield, cost, and scheduleand deliver on them relentlessly.
  • Ensure strict adherence to regulations (e.g. ITAR).
  • Establish and enforce safety, quality, and compliance standards across all operations.

What You'll Bring :

  • 10+ years of experience in production, operations, or manufacturing leadership (aerospace or robotics preferred).
  • Proven experience scaling production from low-rate builds to high volume manufacturing.
  • Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, automation, and factory systems.
  • Experience building and mentoring teams in fast-paced, high-accountability environments.
  • Deep knowledge of quality systems, supply chain, and operational excellence methodologies.
  • Ability to work cross-functionally and balance speed, safety, and quality in every decision.
  • Startup mindset : resourceful, hands-on, and driven to make things happen.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident due to ITAR regulations.
  • Bonus Points :

  • Experience standing up a new factory or production line from scratch.
  • Aerospace or aircraft manufacturing experience.
  • Background in lean operations, Six Sigma, or design for manufacturability.
  • You thrive in ambiguity and love solving problems no one has solved before.
  • Want to join our mission? Apply to learn more!

    Skyways is an Equal Opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other factor protected by applicable local, state or federal laws.

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    Production • Austin, TX, US