Staff Engineer – Advanced Manufacturing

About the role

Shield AI is seeking a Staff Engineer to lead advanced manufacturing initiatives for a next‑generation jet production line. You will own critical processes across multiple programs, driving throughput, cost reduction, and scalable operations while collaborating with engineering, supply chain, and production teams.

Key responsibilities

• Define Bill of Process and manufacturing sequence for assigned sub‑assemblies or cells.
• Map MBOM to operations, tooling needs, and process controls.
• Design ergonomic workstations with calibrated torque tools, ESD controls, and 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, drive root‑cause analysis, and implement corrective actions.
• Partner with Quality on in‑process checks, error‑proofing, and FAI readiness.
• Implement ECOs, validate process updates, and maintain work instructions.

Required profile

• 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 within a startup or rapid‑growth environment.
• Strong understanding of machining, composites, avionics, and assembly processes.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, high‑pressure environment and adapt to changing priorities.

Required skills

• MES/QMS systems
• Torque analyzers
• Minitab and Excel (SPC, capability, DOE)
• Lean manufacturing and 5S
• PFMEA
• Ergonomic assessment tools
• Control Plans and Standard Operating Procedures
• CAD software
• Additive manufacturing technologies
• Automation systems