Head of Manufacturing

TRL11, Inc. is a venture-backed deep-tech startup developing advanced video and camera technology for space and aerospace applications. We are building space-grade imaging systems in an environment where quality, precision, and reliability matter at every step. Our team values people who take ownership, move with urgency, and keep improving the systems around them as they deliver.

This is a high-impact leadership role for someone who wants to shape how advanced aerospace hardware gets built. As Head of Manufacturing, you will lead the manufacturing function for our camera, avionics, and payload products, balancing immediate production needs with continuous improvement across the operation. You will work closely with cross-functional partners to build a disciplined, scalable manufacturing environment while staying close enough to the work to support hands-on production when needed.

Responsibilities

Own the manufacturing process, manufacturing engineering, clean room operations, work scheduling, and quality assurance. Ensure space grade hardware is produced in a workmanlike manner. Support implementation and certification to AS9100 standards. Ensure personnel are properly trained. Ensure equipment is ready for operation to support seamless production operations.

Directly contribute to production from time to time due to the small size of the team.

Requirements

Required Qualifications Prior hands-on production experience in an aerospace setting. 7+ years of experience across manufacturing, production, quality, and/or engineering disciplines. Experience with MES and inventory management systems, including the ability to work within structured production and material-control environments.

Experience with AS9100, root cause and corrective action, traceability and configuration control, and nonconformance control. Experience collaborating with design engineering, quality, supply chain and procurement, executive leadership, program management, and IT. Eligible to work in the United States.

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in a STEM field. 10+ years of experience across manufacturing, production, quality, and/or engineering disciplines. Experience with test and quality assurance, manufacturing engineering, and inventory management. Experience implementing or maintaining an MES system. Experience working with ISO8 through ISO5 clean rooms.

Experience working with avionics and electrooptical devices such as cameras, sensors, and optical components; space hardware experience is a plus. Manufacturing engineering experience in aerospace, military, defense, or other high-reliability systems. Experience with NIST equipment calibration and inspection of electronics to IPC and J-STD standards.

IPC and J-STD certifications, or prior certification, are a plus.

Benefits

Fast paced, energetic startup culture, where you'll learn a lot, have great impact, and have fun doing it 401k, Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision) Unlimited Paid Time Off (with prior approval), for Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays Stock Option Plan participation, based on performance and tenure Salary range $160-220k