Staff Engineer – Digital Factory Lead

About the role

Shield AI is building an AI‑native manufacturing ecosystem to define the future of aerospace production. The Digital Factory Lead will create one of the world’s most advanced manufacturing environments, bridging manufacturing, software, data, automation and artificial intelligence.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute the AI Manufacturing roadmap, identifying opportunities across production, quality, maintenance, supply chain and training.
• Lead deployment, configuration and continuous improvement of the Manufacturing Execution System (MES) and integrate it with ERP, PLM, QMS and factory automation equipment.
• Define and implement the digital architecture that connects production equipment, tooling, PLCs, sensors and industrial controls, providing real‑time visibility.
• Drive automation initiatives, evaluate emerging technologies such as machine vision, digital twins and autonomous inspection, and shape the future of aircraft manufacturing.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Automation or a related technical discipline.
• 8+ years of experience in digital manufacturing, industrial automation or Industry 4.0 environments.
• Proven ability to lead cross‑functional initiatives from concept through deployment, working closely with software developers, system integrators and data teams.

Required skills

• Manufacturing Execution System (MES) implementation and optimization.
• Quality Management System (QMS), ERP and PLM integration.
• Industrial controls, PLCs, sensors and factory automation hardware.
• AI‑enabled manufacturing solutions, machine learning, advanced analytics and digital twins.