Associate Manufacturing Engineer

About the role

Shield AI, a venture-backed defense-tech company, is looking for an Associate Manufacturing Engineer in Seattle to support the development, implementation and continuous improvement of manufacturing processes for next-generation aerospace systems. You will partner with Design Engineering, Operations, Quality and Supply Chain to move products from design into production, supporting prototype builds, new product introduction (NPI) and production ramp-up. The role may cover aircraft systems such as airframe structures, electrical systems, propulsion, mechanical systems, avionics, final integration or ground support equipment.

Key responsibilities

• Develop, implement and optimize manufacturing processes for assigned products or aircraft systems.
• Design and improve assembly tools, fixtures, jigs and manufacturing aids for safe, repeatable and efficient production.
• Create and maintain work instructions, SOPs, process flows and manufacturing documentation.
• Work with Design Engineering on DFM/DFA to improve manufacturability, assembly efficiency, quality and cost.
• Support prototype builds, engineering builds, production readiness and NPI.
• Troubleshoot manufacturing issues using root cause analysis and implement CAPA.
• Collaborate with Production, Quality, Supply Chain and Industrial Engineering to improve safety, quality, throughput and productivity.
• Support tooling validation, first article inspections, process qualification and production validation.
• Use CAD software to develop tooling concepts, manufacturing layouts and production support equipment.
• Take part in continuous improvement initiatives and ensure processes meet engineering requirements, quality standards and company procedures.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering or a related field.
• 0-3 years of experience in manufacturing, production or process engineering; internships and co-ops count.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes, assembly methods and production operations.
• Preferred: aerospace, defense, automotive, robotics or advanced manufacturing experience, and experience with prototype builds, NPI or production environments.

Required skills

• Familiarity with CAD software such as CATIA, Siemens NX, SolidWorks, Creo or equivalent.
• Basic knowledge of engineering drawings, GD&T and manufacturing documentation.
• Analytical, troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Preferred: machining, composites, electrical or mechanical assemblies, Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, ERP/MES/PLM systems and AS9100.