Shield AI · 3 weeks ago
Senior Staff Propulsion Design Engineer (R4121) (X-BAT)
Shield AI is a venture-backed deep-tech company focused on protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. They are seeking a Senior Staff Propulsion Design Engineer to lead the design, integration, and delivery of propulsion hardware for AI-powered UAVs, ensuring mission-critical performance and safety standards.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)Autonomous VehiclesDronesMachine LearningNational Security
Responsibilities
Lead the design, analysis, and integration of propulsion system components and subsystems
Drive the development of CAD models, assemblies, and fully dimensioned drawings with GD&T in Siemens NX
Define propulsion system interfaces, tolerances, and load paths in collaboration with structures, propulsion, and systems teams
Conduct and review analyses—thermal, structural, and fluid flow—to validate designs and guide decision-making
Support ground and flight test operations, including build support, anomaly resolution, and test data correlation
Oversee supplier collaboration, design reviews, and manufacturing readiness for critical components
Develop and enforce design standards, configuration control, and documentation best practices
Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the maturation of propulsion design processes and methodologies
Qualification
Required
B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related engineering discipline
7–10+ years of experience in mechanical design, preferably with aerospace propulsion or fluid systems
Advanced proficiency in CAD (NX preferred), GD&T, and complex assembly modeling
Strong understanding of design-for-manufacturing principles, tolerance analysis, and structural integration
Hands-on experience supporting prototype builds, resolving non-conformances, and executing design improvements
Demonstrated experience with analysis tools (e.g., ANSYS, GFSSP, REFPROP, FEA)
Proven ability to lead cross-functional efforts and mentor junior engineers
U.S. Citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements
Preferred
Background in low-bypass turbofan or UAV propulsion systems
Experience with thermal, structural, and fluid system design for high-performance aircraft
Familiarity with supplier management, configuration control, and PLM systems (Teamcenter)
Master's or Ph.D. in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering
Strong communication and leadership skills with a track record of delivering complex aerospace systems from concept to flight
Benefits
Bonus
Benefits
Equity
Temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
Company
Shield AI
Shield AI is a deep-tech company that focuses on developing AI-powered systems to enhance the safety of service members and civilians.
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
$1.31BKey Investors
Hercules CapitalUS Innovative Technology FundSnowpoint Ventures
2025-03-06Series F· $240M
2023-12-29Debt Financing· $200M
2023-10-31Series F· $300M
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