Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software and V-
BAT and X-
BAT aircraft. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit
www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on
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Job Description:
The Senior Production Engineer applies 7+ years of experience designing high-efficiency manufacturing systems, material flow loops, and pilot cell layouts for aerospace or advanced hardware production. You will architect end to end workflows from point-of-use material presentation to full-factory flow modeling ensuring takt compliance, ergonomic operations, and scalable production readiness.
What you'll do:
Map current-state flow: cycle/takt times, operator walk paths, WIP, supermarkets/kitting strategies, replenishment loops.
Produce detailed 2D layouts and 3D/VR models with utilities, rack placement, POUs, FIFO lanes, safety zones, and equipment footprints.
Run capacity analysis, line balancing, buffer sizing, and kanban calculations.
Define material presentation (kitting, bulk, sequencing) and packaging standards for mechanical/composite/electrical parts.
Lead cross-functional layout design reviews with ME, IE, Quality, EHS, and Production.
Run discrete-event simulations (Plant Simulation/FlexSim/AnyLogic) to test throughput, sensitivity, and bottlenecks.
Write a Launch Layout & Flow Playbook including signage, floor markings, tugger routes, supermarket definitions, and build-station standards.
Support physical installation (tape-outs, rack placement, utility tie-ins) and validate performance through time studies and spaghetti diagrams.
Tools & Skills
AutoCAD, Visio, Plant Simulation/FlexSim/AnyLogic, time-study methods, line balancing, 5S/visual management, industrial engineering principles.
Required qualifications:
7+ years of experience in factory layout, industrial engineering, material flow design, or related AME functions.
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Industrial, Systems, or related engineering field.
Experience in prototype manufacturing in a startup or rapid-growth environment.
Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, including machining, composites, avionics and/or assembly.
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.
Familiarity with advanced manufacturing technologies, such as additive manufacturing or automation systems.
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.
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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.