Staff Propulsion Engineer, Autonomous Aircraft Systems

F7d8749a; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Shield AI in Dallas is seeking a Staff Propulsion Engineer to lead propulsion hardware development for a next‑generation autonomous aircraft system. You will own requirements, architecture through procurement, build, test, flight, and operational deployment, interfacing with suppliers and internal teams.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in aerospace propulsion, hands‑on integration experience, and strong Python skills, with U.S. citizenship and the ability to obtain security clearance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• 7+ years in aerospace propulsion development, integration, test, or flight operations with ownership of complex hardware.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluids, heat transfer, and gas turbine performance.
• Hands-on propulsion hardware integration, instrumentation, testing, flight support, and investigations.
• Strong Python or similar tool proficiency for analysis and data reduction.
• Ability to drive ambiguous technical problems to measurable results in a fast-paced environment.
• U.S. Citizenship and ability to obtain security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the Responsible Engineer for propulsion hardware from requirements to deployment.
• Own engine performance and integration activities, including interfaces and margins.
• Lead design reviews, supplier engagements, and procurement to meet specs.
• Plan and execute propulsion testing with instrumentation and data acquisition.
• Analyze ground/flight data to quantify margins and drive improvements.
• Lead failure investigations and corrective actions.
• Collaborate with design, controls, airframe, and supply chain teams.
• Mentor junior engineers and strengthen propulsion practices.

Skills

Propulsion systems knowledge

Python for engineering analysis

Problem solving in fast-paced env

Independent ownership

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Python

GFSSP

REFPROP

ANSYS

FEA

CFD

Siemens NX

Teamcenter

Job description

Shield AI in Dallas is seeking a Staff Propulsion Engineer to lead propulsion hardware development for a next‑generation autonomous aircraft system. You will own requirements, architecture through procurement, build, test, flight, and operational deployment, interfacing with suppliers and internal teams.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in aerospace propulsion, hands‑on integration experience, and strong Python skills, with U.S. citizenship and the ability to obtain security clearance.