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Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company developing autonomous systems, unmanned aircraft (V-BAT and X-BAT platforms), and simulation technologies for military and civilian applications. This role is a technical ownership position focused on engine calibration and performance for reciprocating engines powering the V-BAT platform.
You will own the engine calibration strategy end-to-end, from bench testing through flight validation. This includes defining test plans, ECU tuning strategies, and performance analysis across the full operating envelope. You'll work hands-on with engine hardware, electronic fuel injection systems, and engine test stands, collaborating with senior propulsion engineers and cross-functional teams (design, controls, flight test).
Key responsibilities:
- Define and execute engine calibration test plans, methodology, and acceptance criteria across dynamometer, bench, and flight test campaigns
- Perform ECU configuration and tuning (fuel mapping, ignition timing, injector phasing) to optimize performance, efficiency, and reliability
- Analyze torque, power, and fuel consumption data; identify calibration and hardware improvement opportunities
- Lead troubleshooting and root-cause investigations for development and production teams
- Reduce and interpret test/flight data to validate performance against requirements
- Represent engine calibration in design reviews, technical readiness checkpoints, and cross-functional discussions
- Develop and maintain calibration documentation, procedures, and performance reporting
- Support refinement of propulsion system performance models through targeted test campaigns
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related engineering discipline
- 2–3 years of experience in mechanical or aerospace engineering with focus on engine performance or calibration
- Deep hands-on experience with reciprocating (piston) engines
- Demonstrated experience with electronically controlled fuel injectors and fuel injection systems
- Proven experience with ECU configuration and engine calibration, including ownership of calibration decisions
- Strong ability to analyze and interpret engine torque, power, and fuel consumption data to drive design and performance decisions
- U.S. Citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements
Preferred qualifications:
- Podium finish in FSAE competition with at least one first-place trophy in a dynamic event
- Background in air-cooled engines, particularly aviation two-stroke platforms
- Experience with dynamometer test cells and data acquisition systems
- Deep familiarity with fuel maps, ignition timing strategies, and closed-loop engine control logic
- Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for data reduction and calibration tooling
- Experience writing custom data analysis tools for engine performance analysis and calibration workflows
- Experience supporting military propulsion systems, tactical aircraft, or high-performance aerospace platforms
- M.S. or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related discipline
