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).
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.
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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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Employees engage in a combination of remote and on-site work.