Senior Staff 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 national defense innovation, and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of autonomous aerial systems. We are on a mission to protect service members and civilians with intelligent systems, and our V-BAT aircraft is a testament to that commitment. As a Senior Staff Mechanical Design Engineer, you will be instrumental in expanding and scaling the capabilities of the V-BAT, a Group 3 unmanned system engineered for unparalleled performance in complex, contested environments.
• This is a unique opportunity to lead the end-to-end design, development, and testing of critical mechanical systems that are essential for the V-BAT's operational success. You will be responsible for creating robust, field-deployable solutions that directly impact aircraft operations, maintenance, and long-term sustainment within demanding military contexts.
• Your expertise will be crucial in translating complex operational requirements into tangible, high-performance mechanical designs. This involves a deep dive into the structural integrity, thermal management, and overall mechanical robustness of the V-BAT and its associated ground support equipment. You will be challenged to think innovatively and deliver solutions that are not only technically sound but also practical for deployment and use in real-world military scenarios.
• Collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team of engineers, including electrical, software, and systems engineers, as well as manufacturing specialists and flight operations personnel. This cross-functional interaction is key to ensuring that mechanical designs are integrated seamlessly with other aircraft systems and meet the stringent demands of aerospace applications.
• Take ownership of the mechanical design lifecycle, from initial concept generation and detailed design through to prototyping, rigorous testing, and production support. This includes performing detailed structural analysis using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to validate designs under various load conditions, ensuring compliance with aerospace standards and military specifications.
• Develop and refine mechanical systems for aircraft launch, recovery, and handling. This could involve designing innovative catapult systems, arrestor gear, or specialized transport and maintenance cradles that enhance operational efficiency and safety in the field.
• Contribute to the design of robust environmental control systems and thermal management solutions to ensure optimal performance of electronics and other sensitive components within the V-BAT, even under extreme operating conditions.
• Design and integrate mechanical components for payload integration, ensuring secure mounting, power, and data interfaces for various mission-specific payloads.
• Drive the development of maintenance and sustainment solutions, creating designs that facilitate easy access, repair, and replacement of components, thereby minimizing downtime and maximizing operational readiness.
• Lead the creation of comprehensive design documentation, including CAD models, drawings, Bills of Materials (BOMs), and technical reports, adhering to industry best practices and company standards.
• Participate actively in design reviews, providing constructive feedback and ensuring that designs meet all performance, reliability, and safety requirements.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in mechanical engineering, materials science, and aerospace technologies, and proactively identify opportunities to incorporate these into Shield AI’s product development.
• Mentor junior engineers, sharing your knowledge and experience to foster a culture of technical excellence and continuous learning within the team.
• Contribute to the strategic planning of mechanical engineering efforts, helping to define roadmaps and prioritize projects to align with Shield AI’s long-term goals and mission objectives.
• You will be a key player in ensuring the V-BAT’s continued success and evolution, directly contributing to its ability to perform critical missions and protect those who serve.

🎯 Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in mechanical design, with a strong emphasis on aerospace or defense systems.
• Proven experience with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, NX) for complex 3D modeling and drafting.
• Demonstrated expertise in Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for structural and thermal analysis.
• Experience with designing and developing aerospace ground support equipment (GSE).
• Familiarity with aerospace materials, manufacturing processes, and industry standards (e.g., MIL-STD, AS9100).

🏖️ Benefits

• Competitive salary and equity package.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• Be part of a mission-driven company with a significant impact on national security.
• Collaborative and innovative work environment.

Skills & Technologies

Senior

Onsite

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Shield AI, Inc.

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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.

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