Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software and V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit
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Job Description:
The Staff Advance Manufacturing Engineer, you’ll take ownership of critical manufacturing processes across multiple programs, leading initiatives to increase throughput, reduce costs, and scale our operations. You’ll be instrumental in building out the infrastructure for a new production line supporting a next-generation jet, including selecting and deploying capital equipment, implementing hardware and software tools, and establishing robust production systems. Working across engineering, supply chain, and production, you’ll ensure smooth integration of new technologies and provide mentorship to other engineers. This role is ideal for someone who thrives on cross-functional impact, technical leadership, and factory-scale execution
What you'll do:
Define the Bill of Process and manufacturing sequence for assigned subassemblies or cells.
Map MBOM to operations, tooling needs, and process controls.
Build ergonomic workstations (height/reach zones, shadow boards, calibrated torque tools, ESD controls, POU materials).
Create visual, operator-ready Work Instructions with torque specs, PPE, inspection points, and MES revision control.
Conduct time studies, compute takt/CT, identify bottlenecks, and lead kaizen improvements.
Establish standardized work, visual controls, job aids, and layered audit systems; iterate with operators.
Capture shop-floor lessons learned defects, build issues, tooling feedback and drive root cause and corrective action.
Partner with Quality on in-process checks, error-proofing, and FAI readiness.
Implement ECOs, validate process updates, and maintain work instructions accordingly.
Tools & Skills: MES/QMS systems, torque analyzers, Minitab/Excel (SPC, capability, DOE), lean/5S, PFMEA, ergonomic assessment tools, Control Plans, Standard Operating Procedures.
Required qualifications:
Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret clearance required
7+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, production systems, process development, or assembly engineering.
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Industrial, Mechatronics, or related STEM field.
Experience in prototype manufacturing in a startup or rapid-growth environment.
Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, including machining, composites, avionics and/or assembly.
Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment and adapt to changing priorities.
Preferred qualifications:
Knowledge of quality standards, such as AS9100 or ISO 9001.
Proficiency in CAD software
Familiarity with advanced manufacturing technologies, such as additive manufacturing or automation systems.
Hands-on experience with manufacturing equipment and tooling design.
Strong project management skills, including experience managing multiple priorities and deadlines.
