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Shield AI, a venture-backed defense-tech company, is seeking a Staff Engineer for Aircraft Configuration Design to support the conceptual and preliminary design of its newest UAV platforms. You will work on aerodynamic and structural configurations, aircraft sizing, weight estimation, and trade studies to evaluate different airframe designs.
Key responsibilities include developing and refining 3D CAD models of aircraft structures, subsystems, and flight-critical components; performing basic aerodynamic and structural analysis using computational tools; working with multi-disciplinary engineering teams (mechanical, electrical, propulsion, avionics) to ensure seamless system integration; and participating in design reviews, system trade studies, and prototype development. You will support rapid prototyping and wind tunnel testing of scaled models to validate design concepts, assist in requirements development and documentation, and ensure designs comply with manufacturing feasibility, mission requirements, and aerospace industry standards. Close collaboration with manufacturing and production teams is essential to transition designs from concept through prototype to full-scale production.
Shield AI's products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. The company has offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, with technology actively supporting operations worldwide.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Systems Engineering, or related field
- Minimum 7 years of related 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 cross-functional teams
- Excellent communication and technical documentation skills
- Active Secret clearance required
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Master's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering
- Experience with 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 in fast-paced, high-tech startup or defense environment
- Active TS clearance or ability to obtain one
