Supply Chain Lead – Critical Materials & Quantum Hardware (Defense Focus)

Supply Chain Lead – Critical Materials & Quantum Hardware (Defense Focus) Application Deadline: Open until filled (target start: February 2026)Job TypeFull-TimeWorkspaceHybrid/Remote-eligibleJob Description Ainabl is the only company delivering airborne-qualified, revenue-generating quantum-secure networking systems today. With a clear path to licensing and backlog, we are scaling from early Phase-0 units in 2026-2027 to full constellation delivery by 2030. We seek an exceptional Supply Chain Lead to own the end-to-end sourcing, qualification, and dual-sourcing strategy for the high-performance permanent magnets, cryogenic components, and precision opto-mechanical assemblies that enable our trapped-ion quantum transceivers to meet the most demanding airborne SWaP and reliability requirements. Reporting to the COO and partnering closely with the CTO and Director Certification, you will de-risk and scale the most critical non-silicon elements of the bill-of-materials as we move from qNIC-200 (2026) → qNIC-300/500/1000 (2027–2030).Responsibilities Own supplier relationships and qualification for rare-earth permanent magnets (NdFeB/DyTb alloys), μ-metal shielding, ion-trap assemblies, and cryogenic sub-systemsBuild and execute a U.S./UK dual-source strategy with full ITAR/CMMC 2.0 complianceDrive second-source qualification for all magnet grades and cryogenic components by Q2 2027Negotiate long-term agreements (LTAs) and SLAs with tier-1 magnet producers, Oxford Instruments, Bluefors, and precision machining partnersImplement supplier quality systems, incoming inspection protocols, and traceability for defense-grade hardwareManage CAPEX planning and make/buy decisions for potential in-house magnet processing or finishing lines (2028+)Collaborate with Systems Engineering on SWaP optimization and vibration-tolerant magnetic designsSupport SBIR/STTR and Critical Materials Institute grant applications for domestic magnet supply-chain resilienceRequirements Qualifications12+ years in technical supply chain leadership for permanent magnets, rare-earth materials, or precision cryogenic hardwareProven track record scaling advanced magnetic materials or cryogenic systems from R&D to high-volume productionDeep existing relationships with leading NdFeB/DyTb magnet manufacturers and coating/finishing houses (U.S., Japan, Europe)Experience implementing CMMC 2.0, ITAR, and DFARS-compliant supply chainsDemonstrated success qualifying second sources under DoD or aerospace oversightPreferred SkillsPrior role in defense/aerospace (permanent magnets for actuators, sensors, or RF systems)Hands-on experience with hydrogen processing, calciothermic reduction, or sintering of high-performance rare-earth magnetsActive or recent TS/SCI strongly preferred (ability to obtain mandatory)U.S. citizenship required (ITAR)Why Join Ainabl? Be part of a mission-driven team delivering unbreakable quantum-secure communications for 6th-gen platformsWork on groundbreaking quantum hardware with global impact and defense advancementsCompetitive salary ($220–$300K base), meaningful equity (0.8–1.5%), and full benefitsComprehensive medical, dental, and vision insuranceCollaborate with DARPA alumni, ex-Northrop/Raytheon executives, and world-class quantum physicistsShape the most critical non-silicon supply chain in defense quantum technologyRecruitment Process Application Review: Shortlist notified within 3 business daysInitial Screen: 45-minute call with CEODeep-Dive Interview: 2-hour session with CEO and leadershipCustomer/Clearance Validation & ReferencesOffer: Verbal offer within 48 hours of final interviewTarget Start: February 2026About the Company At Ainabl, we are the only team shipping airborne-qualified quantum networking hardware today. We are seeking an experienced Supply Chain Lead to secure and scale the advanced magnetic and cryogenic materials that make our systems possible. If you have built and defended rare-earth or cryogenic supply chains at scale, this is your opportunity to own the physical foundation of the 21st-century battlespace datalink.Additional Information Location: Boston, MA, USA (Hybrid/Remote-eligible; primary hub: Cambridge, MA; regular travel to partner sites required)This role involves access to ITAR-controlled information; U.S. citizenship required#J-18808-Ljbffr