Senior Mechanical Technician, Propulsion (R2749)

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:

The selected Senior Mechanical Technician will be joining Shield AI (SAI), a cutting-edge creator of some of the world’s most innovative UAV solutions. SAI’s V-BAT UAV has taken the unmanned market by storm, attracting customers from all over the world. SAI is looking to expand our team with outgoing, energetic, technical-minded individuals. If you want to be an integral part of a rapidly growing company that is going to make a tangible difference in the world, then please apply! 

The Senior Mechanical Technician is responsible for rigorous engine and fuel system testing, test cell and test asset management, data gathering and distribution, test setup builds and general support for all test activities, including offsite testing. This is a critical role in the development and deployment of reliable, world-changing Unmanned Aerial Vehicles.

What you'll do:

• Manage all test cells and test assets, providing real time updates, avionics troubleshooting, and repairs to maintain peak operational efficiency
• Continuous support of engine and fuel system test activities, including executing prescribed test processes, and engine monitoring and operations
• Support test setups, including improvements to design to optimize testing value and execution 
• Maintain and calibrate inspection and testing equipment as required
• Maintain test data repositories, providing quick test data for engineers to analyze efficiently
• Collaborate with propulsion engineers, driving a passion for continuous improvement of propulsion testing
• Proactively identify opportunities for improvement within hardware development projects, demonstrating initiative to propose and implement innovative solutions that enhance efficiency, quality, and overall project success and V-Bat reliability
• Other duties as assigned.

Required qualifications:

• Experience in mechanical testing or avionics troubleshooting, such as engine testing, fluid systems, electronics, or structural systems
• Fundamental understanding of electro-mechanical systems, such as engine test stands or dynamometers 
• Experience with data acquisition systems
• Experience with wire-harnessing (e.g. pinout and wiring diagrams)
• Fundamental understanding of two stroke engines and fuel systems
• Experience with tools and equipment related to engines
• Demonstrated track record of assuming ownership over development processes and features and delivering outstanding outcomes
• Proven track record of successfully shipping products, showcasing the ability to navigate through development cycles, overcome obstacles, and deliver high-quality solutions to meet project deadlines and exceed client expectations in a fast-paced environment

Preferred qualifications:

• Experience in the aerospace or UAV industry
• Experience designing test setups related to mechanical systems
• 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.