Staff Engineer, Propulsion Systems Advance Manufacturing; R5185

Job Description:

We are seeking a Staff Propulsion Systems Manufacturing Engineer to lead manufacturing engineering activities for advanced propulsion and fluid systems used in aerospace and defense applications. This role supports engine integration, fuel systems, oil systems, pumps, and related propulsion hardware from development through production.

The ideal candidate has deep experience with propulsion‑related manufacturing processes, fluid systems integration, and production support for mission‑critical hardware.

• Lead manufacturing engineering support for propulsion and fluid system assemblies
• Develop and optimize manufacturing processes, tooling, work instructions, and production flows for:
• Engines and propulsion systems
• Fuel systems and fuel tanks
• Oil and lubrication systems
• Pumps and fluid control hardware
• Aerospace vector and thrust systems
• Partner with design engineering to improve manufacturability, reliability, testability, and producibility
• Drive root cause investigations and corrective actions for propulsion manufacturing issues
• Develop work instructions, quality standards, and inspection methods
• Support supplier qualification, process validation, and production readiness reviews
• Lead DFM/DFA reviews and transition new products into manufacturing
• Support system integration, validation, and troubleshooting activities
• Define manufacturing standards, process controls, and acceptance criteria
• Support failure analysis and reliability improvement initiatives
• Collaborate with production, quality, supply chain, and test engineering teams
• Mentor junior manufacturing engineers

• MES & QMS systems
• 3
  
  DEXPERIENCE / Teamcenter (PLM) systems
• Supplier manufacturing processes
• 5S/visual management
• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

• 7+ years of manufacturing engineering experience supporting propulsion or fluid systems
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Manufacturing
• Experience in prototype manufacturing in a startup or rapid‑growth environment
• Experience with engine assembly and integration
• Experience with fuel and oil systems
• Experience with precision fluid system manufacturing
• Experience with aerospace propulsion hardware
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast‑paced, high‑pressure environment and adapt to changing priorities
• Knowledge of manufacturing process development and production scaling
• Strong understanding of DFM/DFA principles
• Experience with root cause analysis and corrective action methodologies

• Aerospace or defense industry experience
• Experience supporting turbine, piston, hybrid‑electric, or UAV propulsion systems
• Knowledge of pressure systems, leak testing, and fluid handling
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing and production optimization
• Experience with ERP/MES systems and manufacturing data analysis
• Strong project management skills, including experience managing multiple priorities and deadlines
• Knowledge of quality standards, such as AS9100 or ISO 9001
• Proficiency in CAD software

Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity

Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)

Pay is influenced by a variety of factors including skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background check and reference checks. Military fellows and part‑time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to a talent acquisition representative for more information.

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.