Senior UAV Propulsion Technician (A&P)

Shield; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus

Benefits

Equity

Job summary

Shield AI is seeking a Propulsion Technician for the X-BAT Propulsion Engineering team to handle UAV engine assembly, testing, troubleshooting, and maintenance. Candidates should have hands-on experience with aircraft engines and a strong safety mindset in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred A&P license, prior aerospace or military aviation maintenance background, and ability to read technical manuals and schematics. Must be a U.S. citizen or eligible for ITAR compliance.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years of experience on aircraft engines (military or civilian).
• Experience at an aerospace company or military aviation unit.
• Ability to interpret technical manuals, schematics, and engineering documents.
• U.S. Citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements.

Responsibilities

• Assemble, disassemble, and integrate UAV propulsion systems.
• Perform pre-flight and post-flight inspections.
• Operate test cells for engine validation, tuning, troubleshooting.
• Diagnose mechanical, electrical, and performance issues.
• Work closely with engineers and flight test teams to ensure system readiness.
• Maintain detailed records of maintenance activities, inspections, and modifications.
• Follow strict safety protocols and standard operating procedures.

Skills

Troubleshooting propulsion systems

Manuals & schematics interpretation

Safety mindset

Detail-oriented

Education

Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) License

Tools

Engine dynamometers

Test cells

Ground support equipment

Job description

Shield AI is seeking a Propulsion Technician for the X-BAT Propulsion Engineering team to handle UAV engine assembly, testing, troubleshooting, and maintenance. Candidates should have hands-on experience with aircraft engines and a strong safety mindset in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred A&P license, prior aerospace or military aviation maintenance background, and ability to read technical manuals and schematics. Must be a U.S. citizen or eligible for ITAR compliance.