From the CEO down to the Directors, they are the least likely to be replaced, furloughed, or given a package. Their position is priority, no matter what a mess they are doing or have made of it. And of course, they are the ones giving the execution orders.
The next safe positions, are Mo-Comp, PCG, Inspection, and HSE. But only the employees who work the floor (Welders, Machinists, Assy)
Third in line, right now, Managers, Senior Managers, Supervisors, Planners .... they are the most vulnerable right now, biting their nails. They will point a lot of blame and kiss up to whoever needs it, but they are overhead that is classified as a position that can be consolidated, absorbed, and/or re-distributed.
Fourth and most vulnerable, RFE, Desk Jockeys, Sales, Service hands, and extra's. Extra's being the help hired to do paperwork, errands, data books, extras in maintenance, etc when it was busy.
The buddy system is alive and well here. And during this time, this buddy system will help some, not as much as it used to, but it will help some.