Senior Mechanical Test Engineer - Hydraulics & NX CAD

Shield AI; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 160,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus

Benefits

Equity

Job summary

Shield AI in Seattle seeks a Structures/Mechanical Test Engineer to design, validate, and improve mechanical systems for next‑gen aircraft. You’ll develop test plans, build fixtures, and integrate sensors while advancing automation through Python scripts and data analysis.

You will lead CAD work in Siemens NX, perform FE analysis, and collaborate with mechanical, systems, and electrical teams to ensure rigor and manufacturability.

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.

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 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 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 and validate design assumptions.
• Work with metallic/composite materials in design, fabrication, and testing of components with anisotropy considerations.
• Support lab safety protocols, equipment maintenance, and continuous improvement of test capabilities.

Skills

Hydraulic systems knowledge

Sensor integration

Python scripting

Siemens NX CAD

Problem solving

Security clearance

Education

Bachelor's or Master’s in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

MTS software

Moog Aerospace software

Job description

Shield AI in Seattle seeks a Structures/Mechanical Test Engineer to design, validate, and improve mechanical systems for next‑gen aircraft. You’ll develop test plans, build fixtures, and integrate sensors while advancing automation through Python scripts and data analysis.

You will lead CAD work in Siemens NX, perform FE analysis, and collaborate with mechanical, systems, and electrical teams to ensure rigor and manufacturability.