UAV Propulsion Technician: Engine Testing & Maintenance

Shield AI; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus

Benefits

Equity

Job summary

Shield AI is seeking a highly skilled Propulsion Technician to join the X-BAT Propulsion Engineering team, focusing on UAV propulsion systems. You will assemble, test, troubleshoot, and maintain low-bypass turbofan engines in test cells and during pre/post-flight operations, owning the engine end-to-end.

The role requires an A&P license, aerospace/military experience, and strong problem-solving abilities in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3-5 years of experience working on aircraft engines (military or civilian).
• Prior experience at an aerospace company or military aviation unit.
• Strong troubleshooting skills with gas turbine, reciprocating, or hybrid propulsion systems.
• Ability to interpret technical manuals, schematics, and engineering documents.
• Comfortable working in high-energy, high-precision environments.
• Strong safety mindset, with meticulous attention to detail.
• U.S. Citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements.

Responsibilities

• Conduct engine assembly, disassembly, and integration for UAV propulsion systems.
• Perform pre-flight and post-flight inspections, ensuring all propulsion systems meet operational standards.
• Operate test cells for engine validation, tuning, and troubleshooting.
• Diagnose and resolve mechanical, electrical, and performance issues related to propulsion systems.
• 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 in handling high-performance UAV propulsion systems.

Skills

Gas turbine propulsion

Reciprocating propulsion

Hybrid propulsion

Interpret technical manuals

Engineering documents

Education

Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) License

Tools

Engine dynamometers

Test cells

Ground support equipment

Technical manuals

Job description

Shield AI is seeking a highly skilled Propulsion Technician to join the X-BAT Propulsion Engineering team, focusing on UAV propulsion systems. You will assemble, test, troubleshoot, and maintain low-bypass turbofan engines in test cells and during pre/post-flight operations, owning the engine end-to-end.

The role requires an A&P license, aerospace/military experience, and strong problem-solving abilities in a fast-paced environment.