Test & production · All programmes
Manufacturing and Supply Chain Lead
Build the supply chain and production system that takes Vaubren’s hardware from prototype to repeatable production.
About Vaubren
Vaubren is a European defence technology company developing aircraft, command software, sensing and electronic warfare as one integrated system, with a person in command of every use of force. Our engineering team is based in Bulgaria, inside the European Union and NATO.
The role
You will build the supply chain and production processes that take Vaubren’s systems from prototype to repeatable production in Europe. The hard problem is doing it while designs are still changing: securing critical parts, qualifying European suppliers, and setting up assembly, test and traceability that scale without slowing engineering down. You will shape how and where Vaubren builds as it grows.
Why this role
- You build the production system of a defence company from the start, with real authority over how it works
- Cobra’s printed airframe gives room to rethink how defence hardware is built and supplied
- Your work decides how quickly these systems reach the people who need them
What you will do
- Own the supply chain for parts, materials and services, from sourcing strategy to supplier qualification
- Secure long-lead and critical components, such as electronics, motors, batteries and RF parts, and plan around their risks
- Build European supply where it matters for resilience and export compliance
- Set up configuration control, traceability, inventory and build records from the first production units
- Work with engineers on design for manufacture, cost and test while designs are still open
- Establish repeatable assembly, inspection and acceptance test processes in the workshop
- Plan capacity and the move from prototype to low-rate and then higher-rate production
What you bring
- Typically 8+ years in manufacturing, supply chain or operations for complex hardware, with several years leading
- A record of moving a product from prototype to repeatable production
- Strong supplier development and negotiation, including with small specialist suppliers
- Working knowledge of ERP, inventory and production planning systems
- The ability to build processes from the ground up and keep them light
If you meet most of these points but not all, we still encourage you to apply.
Nice to have
- Aerospace, defence, automotive or electronics manufacturing experience
- Knowledge of European defence supply chains
- Export control and dual-use classification in procurement
- Additive manufacturing in production
Working at Vaubren
- A full-time role in Bulgaria, inside the European Union and NATO
- Work across the whole system, from design review to field test
- Small teams with real ownership of their work
- Relocation discussed with each candidate
- Responsibilities, compensation and start date agreed in writing
How we hire
- 01
Application
Apply for a role or send an open application. Every application is reviewed by the team that is hiring.
- 02
First conversation
A call about your experience, the role and what you are looking for.
- 03
Technical interviews
A discussion of your past work and a practical problem drawn from the role.
- 04
Meet the team
Meet the people you would work with, in person in Bulgaria where possible.
- 05
Offer
Responsibilities, compensation and start date, agreed in writing.
Security and eligibility
Some roles involve work that is subject to security vetting and export control. Where a role requires it, we explain the process early, and an offer may depend on eligibility for national security clearance. You do not need a clearance to apply.
Vaubren is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from everyone with the skills for the role, whatever their background. If you need an adjustment during the hiring process, tell us and we will make it.