Head of Prototyping

External Job Description

PULSE, the joint venture between EDGE and INDRA, is seeking an experienced Head of Prototyping to lead the development and execution of prototype builds, pilot runs and early production activities for advanced defense systems. This role serves as a critical bridge between Engineering and Manufacturing, ensuring new products are successfully matured from concept and development, into production.

Responsibilities

• Lead the prototyping function, delivering prototype builds, test units and pilot runs aligned with engineering requirements and timelines
• Drive knowledge transfer and industrialization readiness between the originating site and the manufacturing site (process, tooling, test and documentation)
• Define prototype build plans and gates (resources, tooling/fixtures, test readiness), ensuring clear entry/exit criteria and deliverables
• Coordinate with Engineering, Quality and Production to capture lessons learned, drive DFM/DFA improvements and close the feedback loop
• Own the prototype build system: build records/travelers, configuration control, as‑built traceability and robust reporting of deviations/results
• Manage and coach prototyping technicians (mechanical and electronic), ensuring safe execution, workmanship quality and ESD/handling discipline (as applicable)
• Support and coordinate validation activities (functional tests, environmental checks, debugging), ensuring issues triage, prioritization and closure

Requirements

• 10+ years in prototyping/NPI environments, ideally with electro‑mechanical or electronics products and high‑mix builds
• Proven experience leading early builds, debugging and transition from prototype to pilot/serial production with stable processes
• Strong understanding of technical documentation, configuration control and change management (ECR/ECN), including deviation handling
• Experience coordinating multi‑site knowledge transfer and cross‑functional teams under demanding timelines
• Familiarity with high‑reliability/regulated environments (defense/aerospace) and traceability/audit readiness is a plus