VP of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing – Aerospace – Washington, D.C.

VP of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing - Aerospace - Washington, D.C.

 

Vice President of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing – Aerospace

Are you a strategic leader at the intersection of cutting-edge technology and advanced manufacturing? We are seeking a Vice President of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing to join a leading aerospace organization in Washington, D.C. This is a pivotal role for an innovative executive with a deep understanding of Industry 4.0, automation, AI-driven manufacturing systems, and aerospace production environments. If you’re ready to drive transformation and shape the future of aerospace manufacturing, this opportunity is built for you.

Drive the Future of Aerospace Innovation in Washington, D.C.

A leading aerospace company based in Washington, D.C. is looking for a forward-thinking VP of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing to lead its digital transformation across production lines and smart factories. The ideal candidate will bring robust experience in robotics integration, smart manufacturing systems, and lean production methodologies. With a focus on enhancing operational efficiency, scalability, and innovation, this role offers the chance to make a significant impact in one of the most advanced sectors of modern engineering.

Key Responsibilities of the Vice President of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing – Aerospace

Digital Manufacturing Strategy:
Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for digital transformation in aerospace manufacturing. Align smart factory initiatives with business goals to enhance productivity, agility, and technological leadership in a rapidly evolving industry.

Advanced Robotics & Automation:
Lead the integration and advancement of robotics, automation systems, and AI technologies across manufacturing operations. Ensure seamless collaboration between digital systems and physical production processes to drive efficiency and innovation.

Smart Factory Enablement:
Oversee the deployment of Industry 4.0 technologies including IoT, digital twins, predictive analytics, and machine learning. Design and scale connected manufacturing environments that enable real-time decision-making and operational excellence.

Operational Performance & Optimization:
Drive lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives across production facilities. Monitor KPIs, reduce downtime, and implement process improvements to maximize output, quality, and cost-effectiveness.

Cross-Functional Leadership:
Collaborate with engineering, production, IT, and R&D teams to align digital initiatives with core business objectives. Foster a culture of innovation and accountability while ensuring operational alignment across departments.

Technology Roadmapping & Innovation:
Define and manage the long-term roadmap for digital tools, automation platforms, and emerging technologies. Identify new solutions, pilot advanced systems, and scale successful innovations across enterprise manufacturing sites.

Talent Development & Team Building:
Recruit, mentor, and lead high-performing teams of engineers, automation specialists, and digital transformation experts. Promote a forward-thinking mindset and support ongoing professional development to build internal capabilities.

Cybersecurity & Data Governance:
Ensure secure, compliant, and efficient data infrastructure across smart manufacturing systems. Collaborate with cybersecurity and IT teams to safeguard operational data and protect intellectual property.

Supplier & Technology Partnerships:
Establish strategic partnerships with technology vendors, robotics providers, and innovation labs. Evaluate third-party solutions and negotiate agreements to bring cutting-edge capabilities into the manufacturing ecosystem.

Compliance & Risk Management:
Maintain full compliance with aerospace industry regulations, quality standards, and safety protocols. Identify potential risks in digital operations and implement mitigation strategies to ensure system reliability and business continuity.

What the Client is Looking for in You

As the Vice President of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing – Aerospace, the client seeks a forward-thinking leader with the technical depth and strategic vision to modernize aerospace manufacturing through advanced automation and digital transformation. You should be a dynamic, innovation-driven executive who can lead large-scale change while maintaining operational rigor and engineering excellence.

Proven Leadership in Digital Manufacturing & Automation

The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in digital manufacturing technologies, robotics systems, and smart factory integration—preferably within the aerospace or advanced manufacturing sectors. The client values hands-on experience leading digital transformation initiatives, driving factory automation, and scaling AI-powered systems across enterprise-level operations.

Strategic Vision with a Focus on Innovation

You must be a strategic thinker with the ability to develop and execute a future-focused roadmap for smart manufacturing. The client is looking for someone who can identify transformative technologies, champion pilot programs, and translate innovation into measurable business outcomes while staying ahead of global industry trends.

Strong Technical and Engineering Acumen

A robust background in engineering, computer science, or manufacturing systems is essential. The client seeks a leader who understands the technical underpinnings of robotics, digital twins, IoT, and predictive analytics—and can effectively bridge the gap between engineering teams and executive leadership.

Track Record of Operational Transformation

You should have experience improving productivity, reducing costs, and increasing efficiency through the deployment of intelligent automation and lean manufacturing practices. Your ability to lead digital initiatives that deliver measurable ROI will be a key asset in this role.

Collaborative Leadership and Team Development

The client is looking for a transformational leader who can inspire multidisciplinary teams—including engineers, data scientists, and operations experts. Your ability to build and scale high-performing teams while fostering a culture of innovation, agility, and accountability is critical to success.

Strong Communication & Stakeholder Engagement

Excellent communication skills are essential, especially in aligning digital goals with broader organizational strategies. The client values leaders who can articulate complex concepts clearly, gain buy-in from cross-functional stakeholders, and drive executive-level collaboration.

Experience in Regulatory and Risk-Controlled Environments

Given the highly regulated nature of the aerospace industry, familiarity with compliance, risk mitigation, and data security protocols is essential. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong understanding of industry standards, safety regulations, and quality assurance within a high-precision environment.

FAQs About the Role – VP of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing – Aerospace

1. What are the key responsibilities of the VP in this role?
As the Vice President of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing, you will be responsible for leading the digital transformation of manufacturing operations, with a focus on robotics, automation, AI, and data-driven production strategies. You’ll oversee the deployment of smart factory solutions, enhance operational efficiency, lead cross-functional engineering teams, and drive innovation in aerospace manufacturing processes. This role also involves aligning digital initiatives with broader corporate goals and ensuring compliance with industry standards.

2. What qualifications and experience are required for this position?
The ideal candidate should have significant leadership experience in advanced manufacturing, robotics, or smart factory initiatives—ideally within the aerospace or defense industries. A background in engineering, computer science, or related technical fields is essential. Experience in digital transformation, automation strategy, and implementing Industry 4.0 technologies at scale is critical. An advanced degree (e.g., M.S., MBA, or Ph.D.) is preferred but not mandatory if offset by strong experience.

3. What technical expertise is important for success in this role?
A strong understanding of robotics, industrial automation, IoT (Internet of Things), AI/ML applications in manufacturing, and digital twins is vital. Experience with manufacturing execution systems (MES), predictive maintenance, smart sensors, and factory optimization tools will give you a significant advantage. The role also demands the ability to evaluate and integrate emerging technologies for improved operational performance.

4. What challenges can I expect in this role?
You will face challenges such as managing large-scale digital rollouts across legacy systems, balancing innovation with compliance in a highly regulated industry, ensuring workforce adoption of new technologies, and aligning cross-functional teams. Adapting to evolving aerospace manufacturing standards, cybersecurity considerations, and ROI tracking for digital investments are also key focus areas.

5. What impact is the VP expected to have on the organization?
You will play a critical role in revolutionizing how aerospace products are manufactured—reducing time-to-market, improving product quality, increasing plant efficiency, and enhancing overall competitiveness. Your leadership will directly influence the company’s technological direction, cost structure, and long-term digital readiness in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

6. What is the company’s culture and work environment like?
The organization values innovation, technical excellence, and collaborative problem-solving. The culture encourages bold thinking, continuous improvement, and agile execution. Leaders are expected to foster a future-focused environment where engineering rigor meets digital creativity, while promoting teamwork, integrity, and a commitment to safety and compliance.

What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?

As the Vice President of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing in the aerospace sector, based in Washington, D.C., you can expect a comprehensive and highly competitive compensation package that reflects the strategic importance and technical complexity of the role. The remuneration typically includes the following components:

1. Base Salary
The annual base salary for a VP-level role in advanced manufacturing and aerospace typically ranges from $250,000 to $400,000, depending on the size of the company, scope of responsibilities, and candidate experience. Top-tier organizations or public aerospace firms may offer higher base packages.

2. Performance-Based Bonuses
This role includes generous annual performance bonuses tied to KPIs such as production efficiency, digital transformation milestones, cost optimization, technology integration, and overall manufacturing innovation. Bonuses can range from 20% to 60% of the base salary based on individual and organizational performance.

3. Equity & Stock Options
For positions in public or high-growth private aerospace firms, equity compensation such as stock options, RSUs (Restricted Stock Units), or performance shares is common. These long-term incentives align your efforts with shareholder value and can represent a substantial portion of total compensation.

4. Long-Term Incentive Plans (LTIPs)
Many companies in this space provide LTIPs based on multi-year performance targets related to innovation outcomes, cost savings, automation goals, or digital maturity. These plans reward sustained leadership and long-term strategic impact.

5. Executive Benefits & Perks
Executives in this role can typically expect a robust suite of benefits, including:

  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance

  • 401(k) or executive retirement plans with matching or company contributions

  • Paid time off and holidays

  • Executive health and wellness programs

  • Company-sponsored travel or housing allowance (as applicable)

  • Business expense reimbursement and professional development support

6. Signing Bonus & Relocation Assistance
If you’re relocating or being recruited externally, the company may offer a signing bonus or relocation package. Signing bonuses typically range from $25,000 to $100,000, while relocation support can include housing, travel, and temporary accommodation.

Total Compensation Potential

When combining base salary, bonuses, equity, and long-term incentives, the total compensation for this VP role can range from $400,000 to $1 million+ annually, especially in companies with ambitious digital transformation roadmaps or global manufacturing footprints.

How to Apply

If you are a visionary leader with a deep understanding of smart manufacturing, robotics, and digital transformation in the aerospace industry, we encourage you to apply for the Vice President of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing role based in Washington, D.C. This is a rare opportunity to lead a next-generation manufacturing evolution within a high-impact, innovation-driven organization.

To apply, please submit your resume along with a cover letter that highlights your experience in advanced manufacturing technologies, industrial automation, smart factory implementation, digital strategy development, and cross-functional team leadership. Be sure to emphasize your track record in driving process optimization, integrating cutting-edge technologies, and leading large-scale operational transformations.

This role is ideal for a forward-thinking executive who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is ready to shape the future of aerospace manufacturing. If you’re ready to take the next step in your career and lead digital excellence at scale, apply today for the VP of Digital Robotics & Smart Manufacturing position in Washington, D.C.

For more information or to explore similar opportunities, visit our Aerospace Leadership Search Portal.

Tags:
VP of Manufacturing | Aerospace Executive Jobs | Robotics and Automation | Smart Manufacturing Leadership | Digital Factory Transformation | Operational Excellence | Industrial IoT | Digital Twin | Advanced Manufacturing | Washington D.C. Executive Roles

Job Category: Aerospace
Job Type: Full Time
Job Location: Washington

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