Senior UAV Propulsion Design Engineer

Shield AI; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 130,000 - 200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus

Benefits

Equity

Job summary

Shield AI seeks a Senior Propulsion Design Engineer to lead propulsion hardware development for the X-BAT platform, a next-generation UAV powered by a low-bypass turbofan. You will own design from layout through production release, testing, and flight operations, collaborating with propulsion engineers, machinists, and flight teams.

The role requires hands-on experience with manufacturing processes, GD&T, and a strong background in aerospace hardware design.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, 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 working with production, technicians, and machine shops to resolve build issues.
• Understanding of design for manufacturing, tolerances, and assembly workflows.
• Hands-on experience developing assembly guidance and supporting hardware builds/tests.
• U.S. Citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements.
• Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.

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 drive improvements.
• Support test campaigns with hardware design support and instrumentation accommodation.
• Apply engineering judgment and analysis (hand calcs, ANSYS, FEA, GFSSP, REFPROP) for sizing and validation.
• Support configuration management, BOM control, and change processes using PLM.
• Participate in design reviews and root cause investigations related to propulsion hardware.

Skills

CAD modeling

GD&T

Manufacturing awareness

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Siemens NX

Teamcenter

ANSYS

GFSSP

REFPROP

Python

Job description

Shield AI seeks a Senior Propulsion Design Engineer to lead propulsion hardware development for the X-BAT platform, a next-generation UAV powered by a low-bypass turbofan. You will own design from layout through production release, testing, and flight operations, collaborating with propulsion engineers, machinists, and flight teams.

The role requires hands-on experience with manufacturing processes, GD&T, and a strong background in aerospace hardware design.