Aerospace Systems Technician: Prototyping & Flight Testing

Shieldai; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus

Benefits

Equity

Job summary

Shield AI is seeking an Air Vehicle Mechanical and Fluid Systems Technician to support the fabrication, instrumentation, and testing of new aerospace products. This role suits a hands-on builder with experience in aircraft systems, machine shop operations, and prototyping.

You will contribute to early prototype development through testing and validation of final assemblies, install sensors, route cabling, and help improve instrumentation standards while maintaining safety and organization in the

Qualifications

• 4-6 years of experience in aircraft maintenance, prototype fabrication, test stand design & fabrication.
• Proficient in metallic and mechanisms fabrication, bearing install & removal.
• Hands-on experience in machine shop operations, including manual and/or CNC tools.
• Ability to read engineering drawings, schematics, and detailed work instructions.
• Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.
• Familiarity with hydraulic actuators, pumps, fluids, load frames, DAQ systems.
• Experience in aerospace, automotive, defense, or high-performance prototyping environments.
• Knowledge of adhesives, fasteners, and bonding processes for composite-to-metal or similar interfaces.
• Able to work independently and adapt quickly to changing technical needs.

Responsibilities

• Construct and assemble air vehicle systems and subsystems such as landing gear, mechanisms, fluid systems, test articles in alignment with engineering drawings, engineering instructions, and CAD models.
• Support the design, prototyping, and fabrication of new products, R&D initiatives, and flight-ready hardware.
• Work with aerospace-grade materials and perform component repairs using industry-standard techniques and tools.
• Fabricate fixtures, machine brackets, and execute rapid modifications on prototype hardware as needed.
• Install strain gauges, thermocouples and various sensors according to precise instrumentation schematics.
• Route cabling, integrate data acquisition systems, and verify sensor calibration and operational status.
• Conduct mechanical testing by applying static and dynamic loads per detailed engineering procedures.
• Document test outcomes clearly and report anomalies or irregularities in a timely manner.
• Ensure a clean, organized, and safe workspace across shop, lab, and composite work areas.
• Contribute to ongoing improvements in instrumentation standards, testing procedures, and fabrication workflows.
• Source and manage inventory for parts and equipment needed for component repair or replacement.

Skills

Aircraft maintenance

Prototype fabrication

Reading engineering drawings

Safety compliance

Tools

Manual CNC tools

Machine shop equipment

Instrumentation installation

Job description

Shield AI is seeking an Air Vehicle Mechanical and Fluid Systems Technician to support the fabrication, instrumentation, and testing of new aerospace products. This role suits a hands-on builder with experience in aircraft systems, machine shop operations, and prototyping.

You will contribute to early prototype development through testing and validation of final assemblies, install sensors, route cabling, and help improve instrumentation standards while maintaining safety and organization in the