Engineer II, Mechanical Test (R4935)

The Rundown AI, Inc.; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The Rundown AI, Inc. is seeking a Structures/Mechanical Test Engineer in Dallas, Texas, to support the development of advanced mechanical systems for aircraft. The ideal candidate will work collaboratively across disciplines, utilizing their expertise in hydraulic systems and CAD tools like NX.

This role demands proficiency in Python scripting for automation, experience with mechanical testing, and the ability to analyze data to ensure structural integrity. Candidates should have a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and at least 2 years of testing experience.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of professional experience in mechanical/fluids testing.
• Understanding of heat transfer and fluid mechanics.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute test plans for mechanical performance.
• Design and build test fixtures involving hydraulic systems.
• Analyze test data and generate technical reports.

Skills

Engineering problem-solving

Test data analysis

Python scripting

Hydraulic systems

CAD Tools (NX, SolidWorks)

Education

B.S. in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

NX

SolidWorks

Job description

Job Description

Are you a passionate and innovative product design engineer looking to help develop state-of-the-art AI and aircraft products? Are you eager to make a positive difference in the world? Do you want to work alongside mission driven and values focused teammates? Shield AI is just the place for you!

We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Structures/Mechanical Test Engineer to support the development, testing, and validation of advanced mechanical systems for the Launch and Recovery Vehicle. The ideal candidate will have strong hands-on experience with hydraulic systems, various sensor technologies (e.g., force, pressure, strain, displacement), be proficient in python for test automation and data analysis, and demonstrate expert level proficiency in CAD tools such as NX.

You’ll work across disciplines to ensure structural integrity, manufacturability, and mission-readiness in one of the most advanced autonomous aircraft platforms being built today. This role is ideal for an engineer who thrives in fast-paced, high-ownership environments and is passionate about building systems that matter.

What you’ll do

• Develop and execute test plans to validate mechanical performance, structural integrity, and environmental durability from start to finish.
• Design, build, and operate test fixtures and systems involving hydraulic actuation, mechanical linkages, and sensor instrumentation.
• Integrate and calibrate a range of sensors (e.g., load cells, pressure transducers, strain gauges, accelerometers) into test setups for accurate data collection.
• Create and maintain python scripts to provide automation, signal processing, and result visualization.
• Analyze test data, troubleshoot system behaviors, and generate technical reports with design feedback.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including mechanical design, systems, and electrical engineering to define test requirements, run test campaigns and deliver high quality results.
• Lead CAD design of custom test equipment, prototypes, fixtures, and components, ensuring manufacturability and safety.
• Perform Finite Element Analysis to simulate mechanical performance, validate design assumptions, and correlate analytical results with test data.
• Work with metallic/composite materials in the design, fabrication, and testing of mechanical components, with consideration for their unique properties such as anisotropy, delamination risk, and layup configuration.
• Support lab safety protocols, equipment maintenance, and improvement of test capabilities.

Required qualifications

• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related discipline.
• 2+ years of professional experience in mechanical/fluids testing.
• Understanding of heat transfer (conduction, convection, radiation) and fluid mechanics.
• Experienced with active and passive cooling solutions and their integration at component and system level.
• Proficiency with mechanical testing of large structures and ground vehicles.
• Experience with CAD design tools such as NX, SolidWorks, or similar.
• Demonstrated experience applying first-principles reasoning to complex engineering problems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to learn and adapt quickly to new tools, processes, and technical challenges in a fast paced, startup environment.

Preferred qualifications

• Experience with UAVs, aircraft, or robotic systems for large ground vehicles.
• Hands‑on experience performing MIL‑STD testing (e.g., MIL‑STD‑810, MIL‑STD‑461) including vibration, shock, thermal, and EMI/EMC testing.
• Subject Matter Expert in aerospace structures and dynamics test environments.
• Familiarity with electro‑mechanical actuators.
• Hands‑on machine shop or mechanic experience (professional or hobby).
• Ability to thrive in startup, R&D, or defense innovation environments.

Equal Opportunity

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.