Senior Mechanical Test Engineer – Hydraulics & Automation

Shield AI; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 130,000 - 200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus

Equity

Benefits

Job summary

Shield AI in Dallas, Texas seeks a Structures/Mechanical Test Engineer to design, test, and validate advanced mechanical systems for defense-tech applications. You will develop test plans, fixtures, and sensor integration, with extensive Python automation and NX CAD work on test hardware.

The role emphasizes hands-on testing, data analysis, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure performance, durability, and manufacturability of components, while staying aligned with security clearances

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 8+ years of experience in mechanical testing or product development environments.
• Strong working knowledge of hydraulic systems and their control/measurement.
• Experience with sensor selection, integration, and calibration in test environments.
• Proficiency in Python for scripting, test automation, and data analysis.
• Advanced CAD skills in Siemens NX with experience designing test hardware and prototypes.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently and in team settings.
• Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.
• Experience running the MTS or Moog Aerospace software suite.
• Subject Matter Expert in aerospace structures and dynamics test environments.

Responsibilities

• 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 detailed 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 continuous improvement of test capabilities.

Skills

Python

Hydraulic systems

Sensor integration

Siemens NX

Test automation

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Siemens NX

Job description

Shield AI in Dallas, Texas seeks a Structures/Mechanical Test Engineer to design, test, and validate advanced mechanical systems for defense-tech applications. You will develop test plans, fixtures, and sensor integration, with extensive Python automation and NX CAD work on test hardware.

The role emphasizes hands-on testing, data analysis, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure performance, durability, and manufacturability of components, while staying aligned with security clearances