Shield AI is redefining autonomous aviation with cutting-edge AI and GPS/RF-denied navigation technologies. Now, we’re building our next-generation aircraft, XBAT, like no other—one that will push the boundaries of innovation and performance.
As a Component Engineer at Shield AI, you’ll own the selection, qualification, and lifecycle management of electronic components across our products. You will drive component decisions that reduce risk, control cost and ensure long-term product reliability and survivability. This role sits at the intersection of engineering, supply chain and reliability.
What you'll do:
- Own component data and governance in PLM (part creation, attributes, AML/AVL, lifecycle states)
- Review and approve new component requests
- Define baseline quality requirements for COTS components and enforce them through design BOM reviews
- Monitor and assess PCNs and lifecycle changes (NRND/EOL), and drive mitigation actions through Engineering Change Orders (ECOs)
- Partner with Electrical Engineering to select components that meet performance, cost, and availability targets
- Build and maintain preferred parts lists and approved vendor lists (AVL)
- Support supply chain with alternate part evaluations and second-sourcing strategies
- Engage directly with suppliers to resolve technical questions
Required qualifications:
- B.S. in an engineering field.
- 5+ years of relevant experience
- Understanding of Product Lifecycle Management (Arena, Teamcenter), ECAD tools (Altium) and structured component libraries
- Strong judgment in balancing performance, cost and supply chain risk
- Demonstrated track record of ownership, high standards, and effective collaboration
- Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.
Preferred qualifications:
- Degree in electrical engineering or computer science
- Familiar with industry-standard component qualification process (AEC-Q, NASA, JEDEC, MIL, etc)
- Knowledge of electrical component manufacturing processes and common failure modes.
- Proficiency in Python/SQL
- Experience writing specifications/standards for internal company distribution
Skills Required
- B.S. in an engineering field
- 5+ years of relevant experience
- Understanding of Product Lifecycle Management (Arena, Teamcenter), ECAD tools (Altium) and structured component libraries
- Strong judgment in balancing performance, cost and supply chain risk
- Demonstrated track record of ownership, high standards, and effective collaboration
- Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance
- Degree in electrical engineering or computer science
- Familiarity with industry-standard component qualification processes (AEC-Q, NASA, JEDEC, MIL, etc.)
- Knowledge of electrical component manufacturing processes and common failure modes
- Proficiency in Python and SQL
- Experience writing specifications/standards for internal company distribution
What the Team is Saying
Shield AI Compensation & Benefits Highlights
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Healthcare Strength — Company materials describe excellent medical, dental, and vision coverage alongside a mental‑health EAP. Site perks such as an onsite gym in DC and a gym discount in San Diego support a health‑focused offering.
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Retirement Support — Careers materials highlight a 401(k) with company match as part of the standard package. A Total Rewards overview emphasizes retirement features within a broader, transparent compensation view.
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Career-Linked Recognition & Rewards — Compensation for in‑demand technical and senior go‑to‑market roles is described as competitive, with visible engineering ranges and top‑end packages. This points to meaningful upside tied to role, level, and scarce skills.
Shield AI Insights
What We Do
Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed deep-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include the V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, Hivemind Enterprise, and the Hivemind Vision product lines. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and the Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide.
Why Work With Us
What makes Shield AI special is our people. We unlock the power of autonomy, and in the face of overwhelming odds and challenges, we find ways to win and make a difference for our customers. We bring together software, AI, and aerospace engineering disciplines to deploy the most intelligent aviation capabilities in the world.
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Shield AI Offices
Hybrid Workspace
Employees engage in a combination of remote and on-site work.
