Associate Engineer, Manufacturing

The Rundown AI, Inc.; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace company in Dallas is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to optimize assembly tools for high-performance aircraft structures. The candidate should possess a degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering along with 2+ years of manufacturing experience. Responsibilities include designing work instructions and collaborating with design teams. Compensation includes a competitive salary, benefits, and equity for full-time employees.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in aircraft manufacturing or tooling design.
• Familiarity with GD&T and precision alignment methodologies.
• Experience with automated assembly systems.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize assembly tools for structural integration.
• Define work instructions and standard operating procedures.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams for manufacturability.

Skills

CAD software proficiency (CATIA, NX, SolidWorks)

Aircraft structure assembly expertise

Problem-solving skills

Knowledge of DFM/DFA principles

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering

Tools

CATIA V5

Siemens NX

Job description

Job Description

We are seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to support the fabrication and assembly of advanced composite airframe for next‑generation aircraft. This role is integral to building prototypes, designing assembly tools and fixtures, and developing and optimizing manufacturing processes for the efficient production of high‑performance aircraft structures. The ideal candidate will have experience in airframe fabrication and assembly.

What you'll do

• Design and optimize assembly tools, fixtures, and jigs to support high‑precision structural integration.
• Define and document work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and process flow for production.
• Collaborate with design, quality, and production teams to ensure manufacturability and compliance with specifications.
• Utilize CAD software (CATIA, NX, SolidWorks, etc.) for tool and fixture design and analysis.
• Perform root cause analysis and corrective actions (RCCA) for manufacturing issues to improve efficiency and reduce defects.
• Ensure compliance with aerospace industry standards (AS9100, NADCAP, MIL‑STD, etc.) and company policies.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field.
• 2+ years of experience in aircraft manufacturing, assembly, or tooling design.
• Expertise in aircraft structure assembly with knowledge of fastening, drilling, and tolerance stack‑up.
• Proficiency in CAD software (CATIA V5, Siemens NX, or equivalent) for tooling and assembly process design.
• Familiarity with GD&T, metrology techniques, and precision alignment methodologies.
• Experience working with automated assembly systems and advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Knowledge of DFM/DFA (Design for Manufacturability & Assembly) principles.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and ability to work in a fast‑paced, high‑security environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in military aircraft programs (F‑35, B‑21, F/A‑18, F‑22, etc.).
• Understanding the fabrication, trimming, drilling, fastening, and bonding of composite and metallic aircraft components.
• Understanding of composite materials, layup processes, curing, and bonding techniques.

Compensation and Benefits

Full‑time regular employee offer package: pay within stated range, bonus, benefits, and equity. Temporary employee offer package: pay within stated range, temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment). Salary compensation is influenced by skill set, level of experience, licenses, certifications, and location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part‑time employees are not eligible for benefits.

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.