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Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company developing autonomous systems, unmanned aircraft, and simulation technologies for military and civilian applications. This role focuses on the design and engineering of propulsion hardware for the Ranger (R6346) platform.
You will own the complete design lifecycle of propulsion systems, including engine, fuel, oil, and bleed air subsystems. Your responsibilities include developing and maintaining CAD models and technical drawings in Siemens NX with proper geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T). You will translate propulsion architecture and system requirements into manufacturable, testable, and flight-robust hardware designs.
You will work directly with machine shops, production teams, and field technicians to support hardware builds, resolve manufacturing non-conformances, and drive iterative design improvements. During test campaigns, you will provide design support, accommodate instrumentation needs, and rapidly iterate based on test findings. You will apply engineering analysis tools—including hand calculations, ANSYS, FEA, GFSSP, and REFPROP—to support system sizing, load case analysis, and design validation.
Additional responsibilities include maintaining configuration management and bill-of-materials (BOM) control using Teamcenter or equivalent PLM systems, participating in design reviews and interface control efforts, and supporting root cause investigations for propulsion-related issues.
This is a full-time regular employee position with bonus, benefits, and equity participation.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related engineering discipline
- 5+ years of aerospace hardware design experience, preferably in propulsion systems
- Proficiency in CAD modeling and drawing creation (NX preferred) with sound GD&T application
- Direct experience working with production teams, technicians, and machine shops to resolve real-world build issues
- Understanding of design for manufacturing, including machining limitations, tolerance stack-ups, and assembly workflows
- Hands-on experience developing assembly guidance and supporting hardware builds and test integration
- US citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Experience with jet propulsion systems on UAVs or tactical aircraft
- Familiarity with GFSSP, REFPROP, ANSYS, or FEA for design trade studies and validation
- Python scripting ability for design automation, analysis, or data processing
- Experience with interface control, fastener selection for high-vibration environments, and high-temperature materials
- Experience in test-driven development environments with rapid iteration cycles
- M.S. in Aerospace Engineering or related discipline
