Staff Electrical CAD Engineer (R3076)

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:

This role is a comprehensive ECAD PCB layout position at the senior level, critical to the development of Shield AI’s advanced V-BAT and next-generation Class 5 UAV technology. We are seeking a highly motivated, self-driven individual with expertise in PCB layout and a passion for creating high-quality designs to support our mission-critical electronic circuits.

As part of our fast-paced, leading-edge avionics team, you will play a key role in advancing our development goals and ensuring the success of our cutting-edge technology. Shield AI thrives on employees who take pride in their work, are deeply committed to quality, and demonstrate a passion for growth and continuous improvement.

What you'll do:

• Design high-quality printed circuit boards (PCBs) for integration into advanced avionics systems.
• Collaborate closely with design engineers to develop mixed-signal, high-speed, and high-reliability designs that adhere to established industry standards.
• Partner with manufacturing teams to ensure designs comply with Design-for-Manufacturability (DFM) principles, optimizing for efficiency and scalability.
• Manage and prioritize tasks based on guidance from leadership, adjusting workflows as needed to meet project goals and timelines.
• Utilize independent judgment to set strategic priorities with minimal oversight, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives.
• Focus primarily on PCB layout while also managing library component creation, as well as the organization and maintenance of design and library systems.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Associate's degree in an electrical engineering field with 5+ years of professional PCB design experience, or 10+ years of professional PCB design experience in lieu of a degree.
• Proven expertise in designing high-density and high-speed PCBs.
• Strong proficiency in applying signal integrity methodologies to optimize design performance.
• Experience in designing for low noise and minimizing EMI/EMC interference.
• Deep understanding of design principles focused on manufacturability, assembly, and testability.
• testability in design.

Preferred qualifications:

• Proficiency with ECAD tools for PCB layout, such as Altium Designer or Cadence Allegro.
• Familiarity with PCB fabrication processes and materials, including stack-up design and impedance control.
• Ability to read and interpret schematics, with a strong understanding of electronic components and circuit functionality.
• Experience working in cross-functional teams, collaborating with electrical, mechanical, and manufacturing engineers.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail, with a commitment to delivering high-quality designs.

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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.