Factory Planning and Expansion Lead

Skydio is the leading US drone company and the world leader in autonomous flight, the key technology for the future of drones and aerial mobility. The Skydio team combines deep expertise in artificial intelligence, best-in-class hardware and software product development, operational excellence, and customer obsession to empower a broader, more diverse audience of drone users, from utility inspectors to first responders, soldiers in battlefield scenarios, and beyond. About the role: We are seeking a highly experienced Factory Planning & Expansion Lead to drive the end-to-end planning, factory layout, and support construction of new manufacturing facilities and expansions of existing sites. This role is heavily focused on factory design, layouts, and space planning requiring deep expertise in capital projects, site development, contractor management, and industrial building systems. You will lead complex, large-scale factory design from concept through commissioning, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to operational requirements.

Responsibilities

Lead end-to-end planning, factory layout, and support construction of new manufacturing facilities and expansions of existing sites; Support all phases of factory expansion projects, including site selection support, feasibility, design coordination, construction, and commissioning; Serve as the owner’s representative for all construction activities; Develop and manage project scopes, schedules, budgets, and capital expenditure plans; Support general contractors, subcontractors, architects, and engineering firms; Support construction execution, including site development, civil works, structural, MEP, and utilities infrastructure; Conduct regular site inspections to monitor progress, quality, and safety compliance; Collaborate with manufacturing, process engineering, and operations teams to translate production needs into facility requirements; Ensure factory layouts, workflows, and utilities are integrated into construction plans; Review and approve design drawings, specifications, and construction documents; Implement project governance, including risk management, cost control, and schedule tracking; Identify and mitigate construction risks, delays, and cost overruns; Oversee commissioning of facilities; Drive punch list completion, final inspections, and occupancy approvals; Ensure smooth transition from construction to operations

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or related field; 10+ years of experience in industrial construction or capital projects, with significant exposure to aerospace or high-spec manufacturing environments; Proven track record delivering large-scale manufacturing facilities, hangars, or precision production spaces; Strong expertise in construction project management, contracts, and site execution; Deep understanding of industrial building systems (MEP, utilities, clean rooms, etc. as applicable); Previous industrial experience, mechanical & infrastructure intense projects; Experience with factory automation or advanced manufacturing environments; Familiarity with lean factory design or production flow optimization; Experience with sustainability, energy systems, or green building standards (LEED, etc.); Strong knowledge of industrial factory design, MEP systems, and site development

Nice to have

Master’s degree preferred; Experience working in fast-paced, high-growth manufacturing environments is a plus

Benefits

Equity in the form of stock options; Comprehensive benefits packages; Relocation assistance may be provided for eligible roles; Group health insurance; Paid vacation time; Sick leave; Holiday pay; 401K savings plan