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Staff Engineer, Manufacturing

Dallas, Texas
Full Time On-site

Summary

Job Description

As a Staff 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:

  • Act as a technical leader across programs, owning the design and optimization of high-impact manufacturing processes. 
  • Drive the scale-up of our flagship product line, balancing throughput, quality, and cost. 
  • Lead the manufacturing engineering effort for launching a new production line for a larger and more capable jet. 
  • Scope and deploy critical production infrastructure, including manufacturing equipment, tooling, and hardware/software systems. 
  • Engage with vendors to source and integrate capital equipment, production tools, and automation systems. 
  • Mentor engineers and production personnel to build organizational capability and technical depth. 
  • Champion cross-functional initiatives that standardize and improve manufacturing performance at scale. 

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field, or relevant experience
  • 7+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, with a focus in rapid growth environments
  • Experience in owning the scale of production processes in a startup or rapid-growth environment.
  • Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, including machining, composites, avionics and/or assembly.
  • Experience with process improvement methodologies, such as Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma.
  • 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.
  • Knowledge of ERP/MRP systems and data-driven decision-making in a manufacturing context.
  • 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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