Senior Engineer, Mechanical Design - V-BAT (R4467)

Shield AI, Inc.

Job Overview

Location

Dallas, Texas

Job Type

Full-time

Full Job Description

📋 Description

• Join Shield AI, a pioneering deep-tech company at the forefront of AI-powered autonomous aircraft for national defense, and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of intelligent systems that protect service members and civilians.
• As a Senior Engineer, Mechanical Design, you will be instrumental in the design, development, and rigorous testing of systems that significantly expand and scale the operational capabilities of our V-BAT unmanned aircraft system.
• This role is critical to the creation of robust, field-deployable hardware solutions that are essential for seamless aircraft operations, efficient maintenance, and long-term sustainment within demanding military environments.
• You will leverage your profound understanding of mechanical design principles to conceptualize, develop, and refine reliable and manufacturable hardware components and subsystems.
• Your responsibilities will encompass the entire product lifecycle, from initial concept generation and detailed design to prototyping, testing, and supporting production integration.
• Collaborate closely and effectively with cross-functional teams, including electrical engineering, software engineering, manufacturing, quality assurance, and flight operations, to ensure integrated and optimized system performance.
• Drive innovation in mechanical design, exploring novel solutions for structural integrity, thermal management, vibration isolation, and payload integration within the V-BAT platform.
• Develop and maintain detailed 3D CAD models, 2D manufacturing drawings, and comprehensive Bills of Materials (BOMs) using industry-standard software.
• Conduct thorough stress analysis, fatigue analysis, and thermal analysis using FEA tools to validate designs and ensure compliance with stringent performance and safety requirements.
• Design and oversee the fabrication of prototypes, and meticulously plan and execute mechanical testing, including environmental testing (temperature, humidity, vibration, shock), structural testing, and functional testing.
• Analyze test data, identify root causes of failures, and implement corrective actions to improve design robustness and reliability.
• Support manufacturing engineers in transitioning designs from prototype to production, addressing DFM (Design for Manufacturability) and DFA (Design for Assembly) considerations.
• Contribute to the development and refinement of mechanical design standards, best practices, and documentation within the engineering team.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends in aerospace mechanical design, materials science, and manufacturing processes.
• Engage in technical reviews, design critiques, and problem-solving sessions, providing constructive feedback and innovative solutions.
• Contribute to the development of system-level requirements and specifications, ensuring mechanical designs align with overall program objectives.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex mechanical issues encountered during development, testing, and field operations.
• Work with suppliers and vendors to source components, manage technical requirements, and ensure quality of procured parts.
• You will be a key contributor to the V-BAT program, a Group 3 unmanned system renowned for its unparalleled capabilities in complex, contested environments, directly impacting the effectiveness and safety of our nation's defense.
• This role offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge technology with a mission-driven company, making a tangible difference in real-world applications.
• You will be part of a dynamic and fast-paced environment where innovation, collaboration, and technical excellence are highly valued.
• The V-BAT platform is designed for rapid deployment and ease of operation, and your mechanical design contributions will be crucial in maintaining these core attributes while enhancing its performance and versatility.
• You will be involved in designing mechanical systems for various aspects of the V-BAT, potentially including airframe structures, landing gear, propulsion integration, payload mounting solutions, and ground support equipment.
• Your work will directly influence the reliability, maintainability, and overall operational readiness of critical defense assets.
• We encourage a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating potential design risks early in the development cycle.
• This position requires a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring that designs are not only technically sound but also practical for manufacturing and field use.
• You will have the opportunity to mentor junior engineers and share your expertise, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development within the team.
• The ultimate goal is to ensure the V-BAT system is not just advanced, but also exceptionally dependable and adaptable to the evolving needs of military operations worldwide.

🎯 Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 5+ years of progressive experience in mechanical design, with a strong emphasis on aerospace or defense systems.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, Creo) for 3D modeling and 2D drafting.
• Experience with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus) for structural and thermal analysis.
• Strong understanding of mechanical design principles, including statics, dynamics, materials science, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics.
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes (machining, injection molding, composite fabrication) and DFM/DFA principles.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot complex mechanical issues.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a cross-functional team environment.
• Experience with requirements management and verification/validation processes.
• Ability to obtain a security clearance may be required.

🏖️ Benefits

• Competitive salary and equity package.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off (PTO) and holidays.
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• Work on cutting-edge technology with a mission-driven company.
• Collaborative and dynamic work environment.
• Relocation assistance may be available.

Skills & Technologies

Senior

Onsite

Ready to Apply?

Apply Externally

You will be redirected to an external site to apply.

Shield AI, Inc.

Visit Website

About Shield AI, Inc.

Shield AI develops autonomous systems and artificial intelligence for defense and commercial aviation. Its Hivemind AI pilot enables unmanned aircraft and drones to operate without GPS, communications, or remote pilots. The company’s products include the V-BAT vertical takeoff and landing drone and software for fighter aircraft autonomy. Founded in 2015, Shield AI serves U.S. and allied military forces, focusing on contested environments and battlefield applications. The company integrates machine learning, sensor fusion, and edge computing to provide resilient, intelligent platforms for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike missions.

View Company Profile

Get more remote jobs like this

Subscribe to the weekly newsletter for similar remote roles and curated hiring updates.

Weekly remote jobs and featured talent.

No spam. Only curated remote roles and product updates. You can unsubscribe anytime.