Staff Loads Engineer (R4954)

Shieldai; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus

Equity

Benefits package after 60 days

Job summary

Shieldai in Dallas, Texas is looking for a Staff Loads Engineer to lead the loads generation and analysis for next-gen air vehicles. In this role, you'll collaborate across teams to ensure accurate load paths.

The ideal candidate has 8+ years of experience, deep knowledge of loads analysis, and proficiency with tools like MATLAB and NASTRAN. This position includes competitive compensation and a benefits package.

Qualifications

• 8+ years experience performing loads and aeroelastic analysis for aircraft.
• Strong understanding of aircraft flight envelopes and load paths.
• Ability to get a S/SAR level security clearance desired.

Responsibilities

• Develop aerodynamic and structural load envelopes.
• Lead analyses for maneuver, gust, landing, and ground loads.
• Coordinate load cases tied to mission profiles.

Skills

Aeroelastic theory

Loads derivation

MATLAB

FEMAP

NASTRAN

Cross-functional collaboration

Documentation skills

Python

Education

Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

FEMAP

NASTRAN

MATLAB

Python/Simulink

Job description

Job Description

As a Staff Loads Engineer, you will lead the generation and analysis of structural and aerodynamic load cases that define the mechanical environment for the next‑gen air vehicle. You’ll play a key role in shaping how loads flow through the aircraft structure—supporting structural sizing, airworthiness, aeroelastic stability, and flight performance.

This is a highly cross‑functional role requiring deep technical knowledge of aeroelastic theory, loads derivation, and flight vehicle behavior. You’ll collaborate closely with structural design, aero, GNC, and test engineering teams to ensure load paths are accurate, traceable, and validated through test or simulation.

Responsibilities

• Own the development of aerodynamic and structural load envelopes for the full vehicle, from clean‑sheet through flight test
• Lead maneuver, gust, landing, and ground loads analyses, including both quasi‑static and dynamic cases
• Coordinate closely with GNC, aero, and structural teams to define load cases tied to mission profiles and flight control behaviors
• Develop and validate loads models using tools like NASTRAN, FEMAP, MATLAB, or custom Python/Simulink scripts
• Support the sizing and analysis of critical structural components through detailed load maps and V‑n diagrams
• Conduct aeroelastic stability assessments, including divergence and control reversal checks
• Lead traceability of loads inputs/outputs across ICDs, FEA models, and design justification documents
• Interface with test engineering to support strain gauge placement, instrumentation plans, and correlation of in‑flight data
• Author and present loads documentation for reviews, compliance, and technical buy‑in
• Support the long‑term refinement of loads methodologies and automation across the aerostructures team

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
• 8+ years experience performing loads and aeroelastic analysis for aircraft (manned or unmanned)
• Proficiency with loads modeling tools such as FEMAP, NASTRAN, MATLAB, or other relevant simulation environments
• Strong understanding of aircraft flight envelopes, control surface effects, and structural load paths
• Demonstrated experience supporting both design and test phases with accurate load predictions
• Excellent documentation, cross‑functional collaboration, and communication skills
• Ability to get a S/SAR level security clearance desired
• Experience on UAV, eVTOL, or tactical military platforms
• Familiarity with MIL‑A‑8860, FAR Part 23/25 loads regulations, or similar certification standards
• Knowledge of aeroelastic stability, load alleviation, and adaptive control
• Experience developing internal tools or automation for loads generation and reporting
• Active or previous DoD clearance (not required)

Compensation

• Pay within range listed + bonus + benefits + equity (full‑time employee)
• Temporary benefits package applicable after 60 days of employment (temporary employee)
• Salary compensation influenced by skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location

Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.