Shield AI · 2 hours ago
Staff Engineer, Aircraft Configuration Design (R4028)
Washington, DC
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level, Lead/Staff
$137K/yr - $205K/yr
5+ years expShield AI is a venture-backed deep-tech company focused on protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. The Aircraft Configuration Design Engineer will support the development of next-generation autonomous UAVs by assisting in design, optimization, and integration of aircraft configurations.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)Autonomous VehiclesDronesMachine LearningNational Security
No H1B
Security Clearance RequiredU.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Assist in the conceptual and preliminary design of Shield AI’s UAV platforms, ensuring optimal aerodynamic and structural configurations
Support aircraft sizing, weight estimation, and trade studies to evaluate different airframe configurations
Work with multi-disciplinary engineering teams (mechanical, electrical, propulsion, avionics) to ensure seamless system integration
Develop and refine 3D CAD models of aircraft structures, subsystems, and flightcritical components
Perform basic aerodynamic and structural analysis using computational tools to assess feasibility and performance impacts
Participate in design reviews, system trade studies, and prototype development efforts
Support rapid prototyping and wind tunnel testing of scaled models to validate design concepts
Assist in requirements development, documentation, and verification planning for aircraft subsystems
Ensure designs comply with manufacturing feasibility, mission requirements, and aerospace industry standards
Work closely with manufacturing and production teams to transition designs from concept to prototype and full-scale production
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering (or related field)
5 years of experience in aircraft design, configuration layout, or airframe integration
Proficiency in CAD modeling (NX, SolidWorks, or similar) for airframe and structural design
Basic understanding of aircraft aerodynamics, structures, and propulsion system integration
Ability to perform basic FEA, CFD, or weight & balance assessments
Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work in crossfunctional teams
Excellent communication and technical documentation skills
Active Secret clearance
Preferred
Master's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering (or related field)
Experience with unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) design or aircraft conceptual design
Familiarity with aircraft performance modeling, stability & control, and flight dynamics
Hands-on experience with rapid prototyping, wind tunnel testing, or flight hardware development
Knowledge of manufacturing techniques, composite materials, and aerospace structural design principles
Experience working in a fast-paced, high-tech startup or defense environment
Active TS clearance or ability to gain a TS clearance
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.
1001-5000 employees
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
Leadership Team
Gary Steele
Chief Executive Officer
Brandon Tseng
Co-Founder
Recent News
2025-12-11
Company data provided by crunchbase