Manager, Propulsion (Test) (R5089)

The Rundown AI, Inc.; Dallas (TX); Sur place; USD 100 000 - 150 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Benefits

Bonus

Equity

Résumé du poste

The Rundown AI, Inc. is searching for a Manager of Propulsion to lead test development for the X-BAT vehicle powered by a fighter-class jet engine. This position manages propulsion test infrastructure and oversees a team responsible for testing systems related to propulsion hardware.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering and 7-10 years of experience in propulsion testing. Strong leadership and technical skills are essential, along with hands-on testing experience. The position is full-time with competitive compensation and benefits.

Qualifications

• 7-10+ years of experience in propulsion testing or aerospace development.
• Hands-on experience designing and operating propulsion test stands.
• Ability to lead technical teams and coordinate complex operations.

Responsabilités

• Lead propulsion test planning and execution.
• Oversee the design and construction of propulsion test infrastructures.
• Drive troubleshooting efforts during testing activities.

Connaissances

Thermodynamics

Fluid Mechanics

Heat Transfer

Gas Turbine Engine Testing

Instrumentation

Technical Leadership

Formation

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or related field

Outils

Python

ANSYS

REFPROP

Description du poste

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 Hivemind autonomy software and V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia‑Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube.

Job Description:

We are seeking a Manager of Propulsion to lead propulsion test development and execution for the X-BAT vehicle, powered by a fighter‑class, afterburning jet engine. This role oversees propulsion test infrastructure, engine testing, subsystem validation, and flight test support activities required to mature propulsion hardware from development through operational readiness.

You will lead a team of propulsion test engineers and technicians responsible for designing, building, and operating propulsion test stands and facilities supporting engine, fuel, oil, bleed air, and TVC systems. This role requires strong technical leadership, operational awareness, hands‑on involvement in testing activities, and the ability to rapidly solve complex technical problems in demanding test environments.

What you’ll do:

• Lead propulsion test planning and execution from component‑level development through flight readiness.
• Oversee the design, analysis, and construction of propulsion test stands, fixtures, instrumentation systems, and safety systems.
• Support propulsion REs in defining test objectives, instrumentation strategies, and data analysis methodologies.
• Guide teams through propulsion thermodynamic analysis, transient characterization, thermal performance evaluation, and operability validation.
• Drive root cause investigations and rapid troubleshooting efforts during testing activities.
• Coordinate test schedules, facility readiness, staffing, and supplier support.
• Ensure propulsion testing aligns with vehicle‑level milestones and program priorities.
• Lead development of test processes, standards, and operational best practices.

Required qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related engineering discipline.
• 7‑10+ years of experience in propulsion testing or aerospace development programs.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and aerospace propulsion fundamentals.
• Strong understanding of gas turbine engine testing, instrumentation, transient response, and propulsion system integration.
• Hands‑on experience designing or operating propulsion test stands and facilities.
• Experience leading technical teams and coordinating complex test operations.
• U.S. citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements.
• Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.

Preferred qualifications:

• Experience testing fighter‑class or low‑by‑pass turbofan propulsion systems.
• Familiarity with Python, REFPROP, GFSSP, ANSYS, FEA, or propulsion performance analysis tools.
• Experience with controls integration, TVC testing, transient characterization, or operability mapping.
• Background in rocket propulsion testing or hot‑fire development environments.
• Experience operating in hardware‑centric, test‑driven aerospace organizations.
• M.S. or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering or related discipline.

Full‑time regular employee offer package: Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity

Temporary employee offer package: Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)

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. Military fellows and part‑time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.

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.