Senior Engineer, Mechanical Design - V-BAT (R4467)

Sorry, this job was removed at 11:47 a.m. (UTC) on Thursday, Mar 19, 2026
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Dallas, TX, USA
In-Office
112K-169K Annually
Aerospace • Artificial Intelligence • Machine Learning • Robotics • Software
Our mission is to protect service members and civilians with intelligent systems.
The Role
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. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube

Job Description:
Shield AI is pioneering the development of AI-powered autonomous aircraft for national defense, pushing the boundaries of aerospace innovation. The V-BAT is an unparalleled Group 3 unmanned system designed for deployment in complex, contested environments.
 
We are seeking a Senior Engineer, Mechanical Design to support the design, development, and testing of systems that expand and scale V-BAT’s operational capabilities. This role contributes to the creation of robust, field-deployable systems that enable aircraft operations, maintenance, and sustainment in military environments.
 
You will apply strong mechanical design fundamentals to develop reliable, manufacturable hardware while collaborating closely with engineering, manufacturing, and flight operations teams.
 

What you'll do:

  • Design and develop mechanical systems and subsystems for V-BAT, including payload integrations, propulsion-related components, transport structures, and launch & recovery support equipment.
  • Create detailed CAD models, drawings, and release packages for manufacturing and assembly.
  • Perform structural, thermal, and fatigue analyses to validate performance in rugged field environments.
  • Support integration efforts across aircraft systems and mission operations teams.
  • Conduct trade studies to optimize weight, durability, manufacturability, and maintainability.
  • Support prototype builds, testing, and validation efforts to meet aviation and military standards.
  • Develop technical documentation including test plans, procedures, and field support materials.
  • Partner with suppliers and manufacturing teams to ensure design intent, cost targets, and production readiness.
  • Provide engineering support during ground and flight test operations as needed.

Required qualifications:

  • 5 years of experience in mechanical design for aerospace, ground support equipment, or related ruggedized hardware systems.
  • Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, CATIA, NX, or similar) for 3D modeling and drawing creation.
  • Strong foundation in structural design, material selection, and manufacturing processes.
  • Experience designing hardware for field, transport, or operational environments.
  • Familiarity with engineering analysis methods such as FEA, thermal analysis, and fatigue evaluation.
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced development environment with evolving priorities.

Preferred qualifications:

  • Experience supporting UAS or military aircraft systems.
  • Familiarity with MIL-STD requirements and environmental qualification testing.
  • Exposure to power distribution, hydraulics, or aerospace support systems.
  • Experience working with external suppliers or contract manufacturers.
  • Active Secret or Top Secret clearance (or ability to obtain one).

#LI-MS2
#LC

Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity

Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)

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. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.

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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. 

What the Team is Saying

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Shield AI Compensation & Benefits Highlights

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.

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The Company
HQ: Port Melbourne, Victoria
Year Founded: 2015

What We Do

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-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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