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Senior Staff Engineer, Advanced Manufacturing (R4359)

Dallas, Texas
Full Time On-site

Summary

Job Description

The Senior Staff NPI Manufacturing Engineer leverages 10+ years of experience establishing manufacturing sequences, standardized work, ergonomic workstations, and MES-driven instructions for aerospace assemblies. This role drives production stability during early builds and rate acceleration by developing repeatable processes, eliminating waste, and enhancing quality. 

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:

  • 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
Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know. 

About Shield AI

Shield AI

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company specializing in artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and next-generation military aviation. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in San Diego, the company is focused on building advanced software and hardware solutions that enable military forces to operate effectively in the most contested, denied, and high-risk environments. Its technologies are designed to function where traditional systems fail—particularly in GPS-denied, communications-disrupted, and highly dynamic combat scenarios.

At the core of Shield AI’s innovation is its emphasis on software-driven autonomy. Rather than relying on remote human operators, the company develops AI-powered “pilots” capable of independently navigating complex missions, making real-time decisions, and executing objectives with speed and precision. This approach allows autonomous systems to operate with greater resilience, reduced latency, and significantly enhanced survivability in modern warfare environments.

Its mission is to protect service members and civilians through intelligent, autonomous systems. This mission drives the company’s commitment to reducing human risk on the battlefield while expanding the operational reach and effectiveness of defense forces. By combining cutting-edge artificial intelligence with deep operational insight, Shield AI is helping to redefine how military missions are planned, executed, and sustained in the era of autonomous warfare.

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