Full-Time

Director of Production

Confirmed live in the last 24 hours

Shield AI

Shield AI

501-1,000 employees

Develops AI and autonomous systems for defense

AI & Machine Learning
Defense

Compensation Overview

$152k - $220kAnnually

Expert

Dallas, TX, USA

This position requires 50% travel to India.

Category
Production Planning & Scheduling
Quality Control & Compliance
Supply Chain Management
Operations & Logistics
Required Skills
Inventory Management

You match the following Shield AI's candidate preferences

Employers are more likely to interview you if you match these preferences:

Degree
Experience
Requirements
  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, or related field; Master’s degree preferred.
  • 10+ years of experience in production management, including at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
  • Proven track record in advanced manufacturing environments (e.g., aerospace, automotive), including familiarity with regulatory and compliance requirements.
  • Demonstrated success in managing a cross-functional team and outsourced production components.
  • Strong background in Lean, Six Sigma, or similar continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to report clearly and credibly to executives.
  • Strategic mindset paired with hands-on operational experience and strong analytical capabilities.
  • Ability to travel 50% of time to India.
Responsibilities
  • Develop and execute comprehensive production plans aligned with organizational objectives, including capacity planning, resource allocation, and cost management.
  • Ensure production meets on-time delivery, quality, and cost targets.
  • Lead and manage cross-functional teams spanning manufacturing, supply chain, quality, and engineering.
  • Collaborate closely with vendors, procurement, logistics, and R&D to ensure seamless integration of production processes.
  • Enforce quality standards and continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma) to drive product reliability and compliance with industry regulations.
  • Implement and refine quality management systems to meet certifications and regulatory requirements common in aerospace or automotive sectors.
  • Oversee vendor relationships and outsourced production activities, ensuring supplier performance aligns with internal standards.
  • Negotiate supplier contracts and manage inventory, lead times, and cost structure to optimize supply chain efficiency and resilience.
  • Recruit, mentor, and develop a high-caliber production team, including managers and frontline staff.
  • Define roles, responsibilities, and KPIs for team members to ensure accountability and transparency in performance expectations.
  • Identify and implement advanced manufacturing technologies, automation solutions, and process optimizations to improve throughput, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
  • Utilize data-driven decision-making to refine production workflows and enhance operational excellence.
  • Present production metrics, progress updates, and strategic recommendations to executive leadership.
  • Communicate complex operational information clearly and concisely to influence decision-making at the senior level.
Desired Qualifications
  • Master’s degree preferred.

Shield AI specializes in creating artificial intelligence and autonomous systems specifically for the defense industry. The company develops AI-powered systems, including autonomous drones, that assist military operations, especially in environments where GPS and communication may not be available. This technology allows for safer and more efficient defense operations. Shield AI differentiates itself from competitors by focusing on advanced AI solutions tailored for challenging military scenarios and by securing significant contracts with government and military clients, such as the multi-billion dollar EWAAC contract. The company's goal is to enhance operational capabilities and safety in defense operations, ultimately aiming to protect lives through its innovative technologies.

Company Stage

Late Stage VC

Total Funding

$967.4M

Headquarters

San Diego, California

Founded

2015

Growth & Insights
Headcount

6 month growth

3%

1 year growth

0%

2 year growth

0%
Simplify Jobs

Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

  • V-BAT selected by Japan for ISR, expanding Shield AI's maritime defense market.
  • Partnership with Palantir enhances scalable, precision solutions for defense applications.
  • Local presence in Ukraine positions Shield AI to support regional defense needs.

What critics are saying

  • Increased competition from companies like Palantir could impact Shield AI's market share.
  • Complex regulatory environment in India may delay V-BAT drone production.
  • Geopolitical risks in Ukraine could pose operational challenges for Shield AI.

What makes Shield AI unique

  • Shield AI's Hivemind is the first autonomous AI Pilot deployed in combat since 2018.
  • The company focuses on AI systems for defense, enhancing military safety and efficiency.
  • Strategic acquisitions like Martin UAV strengthen Shield AI's position in autonomous systems.

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Benefits

Medical Insurance Coverage

Long Term Disability Insurance

Health Care FSA and Dependent Care FSA

Employee Assistance Program

Subsidized Gym Membership

Pet Insurance

Competitive Compensation

Retirement Services

Life Insurance

Parental Leave

Bereavement Support

Flexible Work Hours

PTO

Paid Holidays

Commuter Benefits

Relaxed Dress Code

Yearly Swag Items

Unlimited Snacks

Bottomless Beverages

Annual Celebrations

Work From Home Benefits

Standing Desks and Widescreen Monitors