Engineering Manager, Structures (R2785)

Introduction to Shield AI

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company whose mission is to protect service members and civilians with intelligent systems. In pursuit of this mission, Shield AI is building the world’s best AI pilot. Its AI pilot, Hivemind, has flown a fighter jet (F-16), a vertical takeoff and landing drone (V-BAT), and a quadcopter (Nova). The company has offices in San Diego, Dallas, Washington DC and abroad. Shield AI’s products and people are currently in the field actively supporting operations with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. allies. 

Job Description:

Are you a visionary Mechanical Engineering Manager with a flair for structural design? Do you thrive on turning ideas into groundbreaking products that make a difference? If so, we want you on our team!

We are looking for an experienced Aircraft Structures Engineering Manager to join our engineering team. In this role, you will be at the forefront of designing and optimizing structural components and systems for cutting-edge aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). As the Engineering Manager, Structures, you’ll lead from the front, getting hands-on with advanced designs for aircraft and UAV structures. You’ll guide a team of engineers while diving deep into prototyping, testing, and analysis. Your contributions will be critical in advancing the capabilities of our intelligent systems used in high-stakes defense applications.

What you'll do:

• Lead hands-on structural design, using CAD and FEA tools daily.
• Work closely with engineers to perform stress analysis, material selection, and real-time testing.
• Drive hands-on testing, fatigue analysis, and troubleshooting on the shop floor.
• Oversee technical data development while ensuring structural integrity during real-world performance testing.
• Collaborate with manufacturing and systems teams to ensure seamless design-to-production transitions.
• Mentor junior engineers by demonstrating hands-on problem-solving techniques.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in aerospace engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• 7+ years of experience in structural design and analysis within the aerospace or defense industries.
• Proven ability to lead teams through complex technical challenges.
• Strong understanding of commonly used materials and carbon fiber composites & their mechanical/thermal behavior.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA) and FEA tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus).
• In-depth knowledge of materials science, structural mechanics, and aerodynamics.
• Experience with validation testing and compliance with aerospace standards.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.
• You have a demonstrated record of working hard, being a trustworthy teammate, holding yourself and others to high standards, and being kind to others. 
• Demonstrated track record of assuming ownership over development processes and features and delivering outstanding outcomes

Preferred qualifications:

• M.S. degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent. 
• Leadership experience on a project team 
• Problem solving skills including root cause investigation, failure analysis, and DOE 
• Experience using Siemens NX 
• Experience working on cutting-edge autonomous robotic systems
• Proven background in thriving within fast-paced environments, particularly within startup or R&D settings 
• Demonstrated adaptability, agility, and the ability to innovate under pressure to meet dynamic project demands and drive successful outcomes. 

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Total package details for U.S. based positions:

- Regular employee positions: Salary within range listed above + Bonus + Benefits + Equity

- Temporary employee positions: Hourly within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days

of employment)

- Interns/Military Fellows/Part-time not eligible for bonus, benefits or equity

Total package details for International based positions (where applicable):

- International premium, hardship differential, cost of living differential, living quarters allowance, foreign service transfer

allowance, equity, international benefits, visa assistance, and relocation assistance.

Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check.

Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.