Prototype & Production Lead

Syos is a fast-growing global robotics and aerospace Company, driving the development of cutting-edge uncrewed vehicles (drones) across air, land, and sea for dual-use applications.

We are committed to pushing technological boundaries and delivering exceptional products that consistently exceed customer expectations.

Are you a technical leader with a passion for transforming cutting-edge designs into robust, field-ready products?

We are looking for a highly capable

Prototype Production Lead

to drive the assembly, and deployment of our utilitarian

Uncrewed Air Systems (UAS)

, guiding them from initial prototype production through to successful customer demonstration in demanding, real-world conditions.

This is a pivotal role in our R&D team based in Mount Maunganui, where your leadership and coordination skills will be essential to bridging the gap between engineering intent and production reality.

The Role :

As the Prototype Production Lead, your primary focus will be on

leadership and coordination

You will manage a skilled,

multidisciplinary team

of production engineers and technicians, ensuring all components, processes, and logistics are perfectly aligned to support successful production deliveries.

You will be the force that transforms innovative engineering designs into reliable, high quality, and robust products.

Key Responsibilities :

Team Leadership & Technical Coordination

Lead, mentor, and strategically guide

a diverse production team, including specialists in aircraft, avionics, mechanical, and electrical systems.

Translate complex engineering intent into

executable build plans

, effectively balancing timelines, resources, and technical feasibility.

Set technical goals, provide performance feedback, and foster

professional development

to continuously upskill the team.

Prototype Development & Build Oversight

Direct the production of

functional prototypes

and low-rate production units for internal and customer-facing trials.

Ensure all builds align with operational requirements, with a strong focus on

durability, maintainability, and real-world performance

Oversee testing, resolve build issues, and ensure quality readiness for deployment in

harsh environmental conditions

Logistics, Procurement & Process Improvement

Manage the

sourcing, ordering, and tracking

of all prototype components, optimizing inventory for agile build cycles.

Develop and enhance build

workflows and workshop operations

to drive efficiency, traceability, and repeatability, supporting the transition to volume production.

Health, Safety & Quality Assurance

Lead and promote safe work practices

across all workshop activities, aligning with the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015.

Enforce rigorous

quality and safety standards

across all prototype builds, including implementing sign-off procedures and verifying compliance.

Lead

fault investigations

and drive corrective actions to improve system reliability and reduce errors.

Qualifications & Role Requirements :

Essential Qualifications

A relevant qualification in

Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, or similar)

, or extensive, demonstrated experience in a similar technical lead role.

Proven experience

managing a multidisciplinary technical team

in a fast-paced R&D or production environment.

A strong background in

prototype development, assembly, and testing

of complex electromechanical or uncrewed systems.

Required Skills & Experience

Demonstrated ability to

translate technical requirements into executable production plans

and manage resource allocation effectively.

In-depth knowledge of

inventory management, procurement, and supply chain logistics

for technical components.

Familiarity with

Quality Assurance (QA) and Health & Safety (H&S)

standards and procedures in a workshop / production environment

Exceptional

communication, coordination, and problem-solving skills

A proactive, hands-on leadership style with a relentless focus on

quality, operational readiness, and continuous process improvement

Apply now

to join our innovative R&D team in New Zealand!

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