Lead Tooling Technician, Special Projects Division

Hadrian

Hadrian - Manufacturing the Future

Hadrian builds software-defined high precision component factories for the top aerospace companies in the world. After a successful customer beta phase, we are substantially scaling our operations to our second factory (based in Torrance) and are in the final stretch of building our core software engineering and product team from whom the future of Hadrian will be built upon. This team will leverage various current and advanced technologies and build custom in house software solutions to help improve, automate and scale the future of manufacturing in the U.S

We've raised >$200m to achieve this vision, with multiple rounds from Lux Capital, A16Z, Founders Fund, Construct Capital, Caffeinated Capital and more.

Hadrian builds the factories of the future to scale critical production in Space, Defense & Aerospace industries.

We use AI and Robotics to automate and scale factories that are globally cost competitive and future-proof from the dramatic skilled labor shortage that is facing the Advanced Industrial Base.

Hadrian works with startups, Primes and Tier 1/2s in all markets to cost-down, scale or otherwise enable them to hit production rates on critical programs in Rocketry, Satellites, Shipbuilding, Commercial and Military aircraft and other core, mission critical industries.

The Role

In this role you’ll be a founding member of Hadrian’s new Special Projects division, working directly with the CEO and engineering leadership. The responsibility of this division is both to target moonshot R&D projects as well as act as engineering expertise on new business opportunities with customers.

Your responsibilities will include, but not be limited to, the following:

  • Lead tooling fabrication, fixture set-up, and support for product development initiatives.
  • Assign tasks and provide technical direction to Leads and Technicians to align with organizational milestones and production goals.
  • Collaborate closely with the Core Engineering Team to align on priorities, provide actionable recommendations, and support process innovation.
  • Lead planning and execution of tooling-related projects, ensuring milestones are met through the application of earned value and continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Manage vendor coordination to support timely delivery of materials and tools in accordance with project timelines.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve manufacturing process challenges, escalating and documenting issues where appropriate.
  • Communicate operational status, challenges, and process improvement opportunities to senior leadership including Engineering and Executive stakeholders.
  • Maintain accurate records of tooling and product revisions; ensure alignment with engineering changes and design updates.
  • Foster adherence to all company safety, quality, and procedural standards within the manufacturing environment.
  • Support workforce development by modeling inclusive leadership and contributing to a respectful and productive team environment.

What we’re looking for:

  • Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, including tooling, machining, welding, and fixture development.
  • Demonstrated experience in interpreting engineering drawings, manufacturing schematics, and technical documentation.
  • Clear and effective communicator with the ability to translate technical concepts into actionable guidance.
  • Track record of success in high-paced production or prototype environments with evolving priorities.
  • Proficiency in applying GD&T principles and non-destructive evaluation (NDE) practices to ensure product quality.

Responsibilities will include:

  • Designing structural tooling to be used with large parts and assemblies
  • Designing mechanisms to be used to as tooling for large parts and assemblies
  • Working with design engineers and technicians to build and implement tooling
  • Working with third-party vendors and manufacturers to source tooling components
  • Strong communications, math, and problem-solving skills
  • Exceptional working pace
  • Part-time travel to client sites, when needed

What will set you apart:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent combination of education and 5+ years of relevant experience; or 10+ years directly in tooling, machining, or a related development capacity.
  • Prior leadership experience managing teams within an aerospace manufacturing or advanced prototyping environment (3–5 years preferred).
  • Proven success executing cross-functional initiatives from concept through production readiness.
  • Experience implementing scalable process improvements in R&D or new product development settings.

Benefits

  • 100% coverage of platinum medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans for employees
  • 401k
  • Relocation stipend if you’re moving from outside of LA
  • Flexible vacation policy

It is the policy of Hadrian Automation, Inc. to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

ITAR Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

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Confirmed 53 minutes ago. Posted 13 days ago.

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