Senior Propulsion Hardware Engineer - UAV Turbofan Systems

Shieldai; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus

Equity

Benefits

Job summary

Shield AI seeks a Senior Propulsion Design Engineer to drive propulsion hardware for the X-BAT platform, from early design to production release and flight operations.

You will transform propulsion architecture into manufacturable hardware, collaborating closely with propulsion REs, technicians, and production teams to resolve issues and iterate quickly. This hands-on role requires strong CAD, GD&T, and FEA skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in aerospace hardware design, preferably propulsion systems.
• Proficiency in CAD modeling and drawing creation (NX preferred) with GD&T.
• Experience with production, technicians, and machine shops to resolve build issues.
• Understanding of design for manufacturing, tolerances, and assembly workflows.
• Some hands-on experience developing assembly guidance and supporting hardware builds and test integration.
• US Citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements.
• Ability to obtain a security clearance (S//SAR desired).
• Experience with jet propulsion systems on UAVs or tactical aircraft.
• Familiarity with GFSSP, REFPROP, ANSYS, or FEA for design studies.
• Proficiency in Python for design automation, analysis, or data processing.

Responsibilities

• Own the design and release of propulsion hardware for engine, fuel, oil, and bleed air systems.
• Develop and maintain CAD models, drawings, and assemblies using Siemens NX with GD&T.
• Translate propulsion architecture into manufacturable, testable hardware.
• Collaborate with machine shop, production, and technicians to support builds and improvements.
• Support test campaigns with hardware design support, instrumentation accommodation, and rapid iteration.
• Apply hand calcs, ANSYS/FEA for sizing, load cases, and validation.
• Support configuration management, BOM control, and change processes (Teamcenter).
• Participate in design reviews, interface control, and root-cause investigations.

Skills

CAD modeling

NX

GD&T

FEA

ANSYS

Python scripting

Propulsion systems

Production collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering

MS in Aerospace Engineering

Tools

Teamcenter

GFSSP

REFPROP

NX (CAD)

ANSYS

Job description

Shield AI seeks a Senior Propulsion Design Engineer to drive propulsion hardware for the X-BAT platform, from early design to production release and flight operations.

You will transform propulsion architecture into manufacturable hardware, collaborating closely with propulsion REs, technicians, and production teams to resolve issues and iterate quickly. This hands-on role requires strong CAD, GD&T, and FEA skills.