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 https://www.skydio.com/solutions/energy-and-utilities to first responders https://www.skydio.com/solutions/public-safety, soldiers in battlefield scenarios https://www.skydio.com/solutions/national-security/tactical-isr, and beyond https://www.skydio.com/solutions. 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. How you'll make an impact: Factory Expansion & Construction Leadership - Support as needed 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, ensuring alignment with business and production goals - Develop and manage project scopes, schedules, budgets, and capital expenditure plans as it pertains to factory equipment and facility requirements Construction Management - Support as needed general contractors, subcontractors, architects, and engineering firms - Support construction execution, including site development, civil works, structural, MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing), and utilities infrastructure - Conduct regular site inspections to monitor progress, quality, and safety compliance to ensure ensure factory deliverables Design & Planning Integration - 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 Project Delivery & Controls - Implement strong project governance, including risk management, cost control, and schedule tracking - Identify and mitigate construction risks, delays, and cost overruns Commissioning & Handover - Oversee commissioning of facilities, ensuring readiness for manufacturing operations - Drive punch list completion, final inspections, and occupancy approvals - Ensure smooth transition from construction to operations What makes you a strong fit: - Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or related field (Master’s preferred) - 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) - Experience working in fast-paced, high-growth manufacturing environments is a plus - 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, M