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Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company developing autonomous systems, UAV platforms (V-BAT, X-BAT), and simulation technologies for military and civilian applications. The company operates globally with offices across the US, Europe, Middle East, and Asia-Pacific.
In this role, you will be responsible for structural analysis and finite element modeling of UAV components and airframes. Your key responsibilities include:
- Build and refine finite element models (FEM) to evaluate structural performance of UAV components
- Perform static, modal, fatigue, and vibration analyses to assess stress, deformation, and durability
- Conduct hand calculations to validate FEA results and ensure structural reliability
- Collaborate with design engineers to optimize airframe structures, balancing weight, strength, and manufacturability
- Support development of structural validation test plans, including quasi-static, vibration, and shock testing
- Analyze flight telemetry and structural test data to improve modeling accuracy and correlate predictions with real-world performance
- Define load cases, material properties, and design margins for UAV airframe and mechanical components
- Document and present structural analysis reports and technical recommendations to engineering teams
- Work cross-functionally to ensure structural requirements align with system performance goals
- Contribute to continuous improvement of structural analysis methodologies, tools, and best practices
REQUIREMENTS:
- 5+ years of experience in structural analysis, finite element modeling, or aircraft loads analysis AND B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field; OR 3+ years of experience AND M.S. in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering
- Experience with FEA tools (FEMAP, NASTRAN, HyperWorks, ANSYS, Patran, or similar)
- Ability to perform hand calculations for structural strength and stability analysis
- Knowledge of composite materials and lightweight aerospace structures
- Familiarity with mechanical testing methods (static, vibration, and/or fatigue)
- Proficiency with data analysis tools (Excel, MATLAB, Python, or similar)
- Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work in a team environment
- Ability to obtain S//SAR level security clearance desired
PREFERRED:
- Experience in aircraft structural design, UAV airframe development, or aerospace testing
- Hands-on experience with structural testing
- Exposure to CAD software (NX, Catia, SolidWorks) and PLM tools (Teamcenter or similar)
- Understanding of aerospace industry standards, structural certification processes, and material selection
- Fatigue and damage tolerance (DaDT) experience including crack initiation and crack growth
