Staff Engineer, Supply Chain (Supplier Development)

About the role

Shield AI, a venture-backed defense-tech company, is looking for a Supplier Development Engineer focused on machined parts. The role strengthens supplier performance by solving quality, on-time delivery and scaling issues, helping suppliers onboard to new designs and supporting the company's mission of affordable, autonomous mass at scale. The position is based in Seattle.

Key responsibilities

• Audit and embed improvement opportunities into supplier processes, covering cost, lead times and quality
• Conduct on-site audits to root cause supplier quality issues and performance challenges
• Assess and improve supplier capabilities so they align with engineering and operational priorities
• Give suppliers technical guidance on part specifications, manufacturing processes, standards and quality measures
• Track supplier performance metrics such as delivery, quality and cost, and run corrective actions and continuous improvement plans
• Identify and mitigate supply chain risks to keep production and delivery running
• Support new product introduction by making sure suppliers meet quality and delivery requirements during development

Required profile

• 7+ years of experience in supply chain, manufacturing engineering, process engineering or supplier development
• Experience working with suppliers or production lines
• Ability to read drawings and GD&T confidently
• Understanding of machining, welding and forming processes
• Willingness to travel up to 50%, including internationally

Required skills

• CAD tools such as SolidWorks, NX or CATIA
• Excel and data analysis
• PLM or ERP systems
• Root cause investigations using 8D and 5 Whys