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Craft Ventures Portfolio Job Board

Senior Industrial Engineer

Firestorm

Firestorm

San Diego, CA, USA
USD 130k-155k / year
Posted on Jul 12, 2025
Senior Industrial Engineer
San Diego, CA
Operations
In office
Full-time
Who We Are
At Firestorm, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower U.S. ally nations to effectively deter aggressors—regardless of their defense budget—through innovative, cost-efficient technologies. We call this vision “democratized deterrence.” As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we’re pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators. By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we’re pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world-class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all at a fraction of the cost.
About the Role
At Firestorm Labs, we are building the future of distributed, mission-adaptive airpower for the modern warfighter. We are seeking a highly analytical, detail-oriented Industrial Engineer to join our team and drive operational excellence. In this role, you will be responsible for analyzing and optimizing operations, improving processes, reducing waste, and increasing efficiency across our additive manufacturing, assembly, and test operations. Your work will play a crucial role in developing strategies to scale Firestorm’s production capacity and ensure mission success.
This is a hands-on, technical position where precision, discipline, and accountability are paramount. The hardware you help create will take flight, and your contributions will directly influence the tactical readiness and operational success of Firestorm’s platforms.
What You’ll Do
  • Analyze current engineering or production processes, workflow, and facility layout to identify opportunities for new product introduction flows and production process improvements.
  • Develop and implement process improvements to reduce costs, increase throughput, and enhance quality and safety.
  • Conduct time and motion studies to establish standard work procedures and optimize labor efficiency.
  • Design and optimize systems, identifying opportunities for automation and integrating workers, machines, materials, information, and energy.
  • Analyze production volumes to create scalable plans and optimize inventory control, logistics, and supply chain operations.
  • Drive continuous improvement by implementing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other methodologies.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, quality, engineering, and logistics, to ensure process alignment and support operational goals.
  • Assist in developing and maintaining comprehensive documentation for procedures, process flows, and work instructions.
  • Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track performance and generate reports that support data-driven decision-making.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering or a related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in industrial engineering, manufacturing, or process improvement.
  • Experience with New Product Introduction (NPI) and Product Lifecycle Change Management processes.
  • Proficient with data analysis tools and industrial engineering software, such as AutoCAD, simulation tools, and Excel.
  • Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement practices.
  • Experienced with Engineering Change processes, from requests through to implementation.
  • Background in project management and familiarity with the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK).
  • Experience with drawings and engineering/manufacturing Bill of Materials (BOM) is required.
  • Proven track record with Lean/Six Sigma methodologies for waste reduction in a manufacturing environment.
  • Basic CAD design experience, with a preference for floor layout and small tooling.
  • Experience in materials management (i.e., warehousing, transportation, logistics)
  • A solid understanding of engineering concepts, principles, and theories with technical experience demonstrating their practical application.
  • Ability to quickly understand and apply new concepts in a dynamic environment, while organizing work to meet established timelines.
  • Self-directed and comfortable operating in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment.
  • Strong communication skills and accountability in team-based settings.
  • Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs and standing for extended periods in a hands-on environment.
  • U.S. Person status (Citizen or Permanent Resident) required due to ITAR regulations.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related discipline.
  • Expertise in complex assembly methods and processes, with experience in aerospace, additive manufacturing and automation, considered a plus.
  • Working knowledge of ERP systems (e.g., Costpoint) and PLM systems (e.g., Arena) is highly desirable.
  • Direct experience in additive manufacturing and automation.
Work Environment
  • Based at our Headquarters in San Diego, CA.
  • This role requires daily on-site presence.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. and wear appropriate PPE [as required].
  • PPE is provided; adherence to all safety protocols and environmental controls is mandatory.
  • Occasional travel may be required (up to 10%)
Compensation
US Salary Range: $130,000 - $155,000 USD
The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.
Benefits & Perks
Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:
  • We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
  • Unlimited PTO
  • Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in December.
  • Generous Parental Leave
  • FSA
  • HSA
  • Hospital Indemnity insurance
  • Critical Illness insurance
  • Accident insurance
  • Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
  • Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.
ITAR Compliance
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.
Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected] so we can provide the support you need.
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