Principal Mechanical Design Engineer - Mechanical Systems (R3866) (Remote)

Shield AI; United States; Remote; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative autonomous technology company is seeking a Principal Mechanical Design Engineer to lead the design of precision mechanical systems for UAV platforms. The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of experience in mechanism design and expertise in CAD, kinematic analysis, and structural analysis. This role involves mentoring junior engineers and collaborating with cross-functional teams in a fast-paced environment, emphasizing independent leadership and commitment to high standards.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in mechanical or mechanism design.
• Willingness to travel up to 25% (1 week/month in Dallas, TX).
• Ability to work independently and lead in fast-paced, cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Design complex electro-mechanical mechanisms for autonomous aircraft.
• Own the full design process: concept, CAD, tolerance analysis, material selection.
• Perform structural and kinematic calculations and preliminary FEA.

Skills

Mechanism design

CAD proficiency

Kinematic analysis

Structural analysis

Mentoring

Education

B.S. in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering

Tools

NX CAD software

Job description

Shield AI is seeking a Principal Mechanical Design Engineer with deep expertise in mechanism design to support the development of our next-generation autonomous UAV platform. In this high-ownership role, you will lead the architecture, design, and development of precision mechanical systems and actuation mechanisms that are critical to mission success.

You will work closely with cross-functional teams to create rugged, lightweight, and manufacturable mechanisms-ranging from landing gear to deployable payload systems-while delivering high performance in dynamic and harsh environments. This is an opportunity to design at the edge of innovation and autonomy, with real-world impact.

What you'll do:

• Design complex electro-mechanical mechanisms for autonomous aircraft
• Own the full design process: concept, CAD, tolerance analysis, material selection, and drawing release
• Perform structural and kinematic calculations and preliminary FEA
• Prototype, test, and iterate mechanism designs for functionality and reliability
• Collaborate with electrical, avionics, flight controls, and propulsion teams
• Mentor junior engineers and promote engineering excellence
• Support pre-production builds, prototype integration, and ground/flight testing

Required qualifications:

• Willingness to travel up to 25% (1 week/month in Dallas, TX)
• B.S. in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering
• 10+ years in mechanical or mechanism design
• Strong CAD skills (NX preferred)
• Kinematic analysis and optimization
• Structural analysis utilizing hand calculations and finite element methods
• FEA analysis: Modal, non-linear and linear, buckling, fatigue
• GD&T and tolerance stack-ups for mechanical systems
• Materials selection inclusive of alloys, heat treatments, allowables, and finishes
• Ability to work independently and lead in fast-paced, cross-functional teams
• A demonstrated record of working hard, being trustworthy, holding yourself to high standards, and being kind to others

Preferred qualifications:

• Experience with UAVs, aircraft, or robotic systems
• Familiarity with electro-mechanical actuators
• Proficiency in FMEA, DOE, and root cause analysis
• Hands-on machine shop or mechanic experience (professional or hobby)
• RTCA DO-160, structural, or actuated mechanism testing experience
• Ability to thrive in startup, R&D, or defense innovation environments

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.