Associate Engineer, Manufacturing

Shieldai; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus

Equity

Comprehensive benefits package

Job summary

Shieldai is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer in Dallas, Texas, to support the fabrication and assembly of advanced composite aircraft structures. The role involves designing tools and fixtures, optimizing manufacturing processes, and ensuring compliance with aerospace standards.

The ideal candidate should have a degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering and at least 2 years of experience in aircraft manufacturing. Strong proficiency in CAD software is essential for success in this position.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in aircraft manufacturing, assembly, or tooling design.
• Expertise in fastening, drilling, and tolerance stack-up.
• Experience working with automated assembly systems.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize assembly tools and fixtures.
• Document work instructions and SOPs for production.
• Collaborate with teams to ensure manufacturability.

Skills

Aircraft structure assembly expertise

Problem-solving skills

Experience with CAD software

Familiarity with GD&T and metrology

Education

Bachelor's or Master’s in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field

Tools

CAD Software (CATIA, NX, SolidWorks)

Job description

Manufacturing Engineer

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/optimizing manufacturing processes for the efficient production of high-performance aircraft structures. The ideal candidate will have experience in airframe fabrication and assembly.

Responsibilities

• 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.

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.
• 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

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.

Equal Employment Opportunity

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.