Vice President, Demonstrator & Production Systems

About XTI Aerospace:  

XTI Aerospace is a pioneering leader in xVTOL and powered-lift aircraft solutions. We’re developing the TriFan 600, which combines helicopter vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) versatility with the speed, range, and comfort of a fixed-wing aircraft—to redefine regional air travel.    

Introducing the TriFan 600 – an xVTOL aircraft that takes off and lands like a helicopter and flies with the speed, range and comfort of an airplane. It’s about time.    

If you’re passionate about pioneering aerospace innovation, eager to work on projects that redefine the way we move, and ready to join a company where every role is an opportunity to change the world, then welcome aboard. Explore our career opportunities and be part of a team that’s not just dreaming of the future—we live it

Role Overview

The Vice President of Engineering & Production Systems will lead XTI Aircraft’s integrated engineering, manufacturing, and certification functions in support of the TriFan 600 Demonstrator and follow-on production programs. This executive will oversee the development of scalable digital factory infrastructure, establish lean engineering and manufacturing processes, and ensure successful transition from prototype to low-rate initial production.

This position requires a proven leader with deep technical and programmatic experience across both rotorcraft and fixed-wing domains, with an emphasis on model-based engineering, production readiness, and FAA certification.

Key Responsibilities

Engineering Leadership

• Lead all design, analysis, and integration activities supporting the TriFan Demonstrator and type-certification program.
• Oversee engineering configuration management, part numbering, MRP/BOM structure, and digital thread implementation.
• Direct the adoption of Siemens PDM and visualization toolsets across disciplines.

Production & Digital Factory

• Define and execute the digital factory roadmap for scalable, efficient production.
• Lead manufacturability reviews, process planning, tooling, and supplier readiness for LRIP.
• Drive lean manufacturing practices and continuous improvement across engineering and operations.

Certification & Flight Test Integration

• Coordinate FAA and DoD airworthiness processes, including TC/STC and MIL-STD-810/DO-160 compliance.
• Support planning and execution of ground and flight test campaigns in coordination with the certification lead.

Supplier & Program Management

• Manage technical engagement with key suppliers (NIAR, Honeywell, PPG, etc.) to ensure design integrity, cost, and schedule compliance.
• Lead program technical reviews and readiness assessments aligned with TriFan Program Integration Summit objectives.

Leadership & Culture

• Build and mentor a high-performing multidisciplinary team encompassing mechanical, systems, and manufacturing engineering.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to align product development, investment, and capital priorities.

Qualifications

• 20+ years of experience in aerospace engineering, manufacturing, and program management; at least 10 years in leadership roles.
• Demonstrated success leading integrated teams through design, build, and certification of complex air vehicles.
• Expertise in lean engineering, model-based definition (MBD), and digital manufacturing environments.
• Direct experience with FAA and military airworthiness processes (AWR, TC/STC).
• Proven ability to lead supplier networks, production transitions, and large-scale technical teams.
• Active DoD Secret clearance preferred.
• Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering (required); Master’s in Engineering Management (preferred).

Immediate Objectives (Next 90 Days)

1. Establish baseline production engineering organization and reporting structure.
2. Lead readiness and integration reviews for the TriFan 600 Demonstrator.
3. Finalize supplier selection for key structural and manufacturing elements.
4. Develop digital factory architecture and LRIP production roadmap.
5. Integrate with TriFan Program Integration Summit and provide readiness assessment.

At XTI Aerospace, we are driven by innovation and the desire to reshape the future of air mobility. If you are passionate about cutting-edge aerospace technology and eager to make an impact on projects like the TriFan 600, we invite you to join our dynamic team. We offer a competitive benefits package, a collaborative work environment, and the opportunity to be at the forefront of sustainable aviation.  

XTI Aerospace is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or veteran status.  

To apply, please submit your resume outlining your qualifications and experience. We look forward to exploring how you can contribute to our journey toward a more sustainable and innovative future in aviation.  

Note to Recruiters: XTI Aerospace does not accept unsolicited resumes or referrals from placement agencies, staffing vendors or other external parties seeking recruiting fees without a signed formal agreement.