Propulsion Engineering Manager — Jet Engine & TVC Systems

Shieldai; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus

Equity

Benefits

Job summary

Shield AI seeks a Manager of Propulsion to lead the development and execution of engine and TVC systems for the X-BAT vehicle. You will manage propulsion engineers and technicians through concept to flight deployment, coordinating with REs, controls, airframe, and flight test teams in a fast-paced aerospace program.

The role requires hands-on leadership, strong communication, and deep propulsion knowledge, with a focus on thermodynamics, gas turbine operation, and system integration. U.S.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related engineering discipline.
• 7–10+ years of propulsion development, integration, testing, or flight operations.
• Experience leading engineering teams or large cross‑functional technical efforts.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and propulsion fundamentals.
• U.S. Citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements.
• Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance (desired).
• Hands-on experience supporting propulsion hardware development and test programs.

Responsibilities

• Lead propulsion engineering efforts related to engine and TVC development, integration, testing, and flight operations.
• Mentor propulsion REs responsible for engine modules, nozzles, actuators, vectoring hardware, and related systems.
• Drive technical execution, staffing, prioritization, and schedule alignment across propulsion activities.
• Guide teams through propulsion trade studies involving thermodynamics, transient behavior, thermal management, structural integration, and operability limits.
• Coordinate with controls, airframe, and mission teams to ensure propulsion supports maneuverability and CONOPS.
• Support root cause investigations, performance anomalies, design reviews, and flight readiness activities.
• Drive technical rigor, accountability, and measurable execution across propulsion organization.
• Collaborate with suppliers and external partners supporting propulsion hardware and testing.

Skills

Team leadership

Strong communication

Hands-on engineering

Propulsion fundamentals

Education

Bachelor’s degree in aerospace/mechanical

MS/PhD in aerospace engineering

Tools

GFSSP

REFPROP

ANSYS

FEA

Job description

Shield AI seeks a Manager of Propulsion to lead the development and execution of engine and TVC systems for the X-BAT vehicle. You will manage propulsion engineers and technicians through concept to flight deployment, coordinating with REs, controls, airframe, and flight test teams in a fast-paced aerospace program.

The role requires hands-on leadership, strong communication, and deep propulsion knowledge, with a focus on thermodynamics, gas turbine operation, and system integration. U.S.