Propulsion Engineer II (R3431)

Shield AI; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 94,000 - 142,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative defense technology company is seeking a passionate Propulsion Engineer to join their dynamic team. In this role, you will develop cutting-edge mechanical design solutions for propulsion and fuel systems in autonomous UAV products. You will collaborate with diverse teams, conduct feasibility studies, and support testing and validation efforts. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to mission-driven projects that enhance the safety and efficiency of operations. If you are eager to make a positive impact and work in a fast-paced environment, this role is perfect for you.

Benefits

Bonus

Benefits

Equity

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in mechanical systems design and development.
• Proficiency in CAD modeling and understanding of aerospace system architecture.

Responsibilities

• Develop and test propulsion systems and fuel systems for UAV products.
• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams for cross-functional projects.

Skills

Mechanical Design

Propulsion Systems

CAD Modeling

Tolerance Analysis

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Hardware Testing

Microsoft Office

Education

B.S. in Mechanical Engineering

B.S. in Aerospace Engineering

Tools

CAD Tools

FEA Software

Job description

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent, autonomous systems. Its products include Hivemind Enterprise—EdgeOS, Pilot, Commander, and Forge—as well as V-BAT and Sentient Vision Systems (wide-area motion imaging software). With offices in San Diego, Dallas, Washington, D.C., Abu Dhabi (UAE), Kyiv (Ukraine), and Melbourne (Australia), Shield AI’s technology actively supports U.S. and allied operations worldwide.

For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn,X and Instagram.

Job Description:

Are you a passionate, innovative, experienced Propulsion Engineer looking to help develop state-of-the-art AI and robotics 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!

As a Propulsion Engineer, you'll be responsible for developing innovative mechanical design solutions of propulsion and fuel systems for Shield AI's autonomous UAV products, conducting feasibility studies, and coordinating validation testing on new and modified design using state-of-the-art CAD and analysis tools.

What you will do in this role:

• Support development, analysis, and testing of propulsion systems, engine components, and fuel systems for aircraft.
• Assist in developing system and subsystem requirements that support performance, reliability, and product goals.
• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams, including electrical, mechanical, software, and flight sciences, to support cross-functional projects.
• Assist in the preparation of verification and validation test plans for fuel systems, propulsion performance, reliability, aerodynamic performance, and environmental testing.
• Contribute to system architecture development, considering factors like weight, performance, and maintenance requirements.
• Help produce technical reports to document findings from propulsion system design and development activities.
• Assist with system, subsystem, and component trade studies, providing input on design decisions.
• Perform analysis using hand calculations, CAD tools, and FEA to support design reviews.
• Support test campaigns and collaborate with design, systems engineering, and external partners to ensure smooth testing and validation.
• Use data and analysis to help establish acceptance criteria for propulsion hardware testing.
• Identify and recommend improvements to hardware development processes to enhance efficiency, quality, and overall project success.
• Perform other duties as assigned, assisting senior engineers and project leads as needed.

Required qualifications:

• You have a B.S. degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
• 2+ years of hands-on experience in design and development of mechanical systems.
• Basic CAD modeling experience.
• Familiarity with tolerance analysis, ANSI drawing standards, and common inspection tools and methods.
• Understanding of system architecture for aerospace applications.
• Exposure to various phases of product development, from concept through to production.
• Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional environment and collaborate with diverse teams.
• Experience with hardware testing, including supporting test plans and assisting in managing smaller projects.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Strong work ethic, collaborative team player, and able to maintain high standards while being respectful and considerate toward others.
• Demonstrated initiative to take ownership of tasks, contributing to the development process and striving for excellent results.
• Willingness and ability to work in a fast-paced environment, navigate development cycles, and contribute to meeting project deadlines.

$94,300 - $141,450 a year

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.

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.