Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube.
Job Description:
Are you a passionate and innovative product design engineer looking to help develop state-of-the-art AI and aircraft products? Are you eager to make a positive difference in the world? Do you want to work alongside mission driven and values focused teammates? Shield AI is just the place for you!
As a Mechanical Designer/Drafter Engineer, you will be responsible for contributing to the design and development of Shield AI's autonomous UAV products. You will help architect new products, support the detailed design of complex structural systems for the launch and recovery vehicle and will use best in class design and analysis tools. You will collaborate closely with internal and/or external partners to prototype, test and release products to production. You will also help ensure product features achieve performance, schedule and reliability goals.
You’ll work across disciplines to ensure structural integrity, manufacturability, and mission-readiness in one of the most advanced autonomous aircraft platforms being built today. This role is ideal for an mechanical engineer who thrives in fast-paced, high-ownership environments and is passionate about building systems that matter.
What you'll do:
Support the design of complex structures for the autonomous aircraft launch and recovery system
Support the full design process: concept, CAD, tolerance analysis, material selection, and drawing release
Perform structural and kinematic calculations and preliminary FEA
Prototype, test, and iterate mechanism designs for functionality and reliability
Collaborate with electrical, avionics, flight controls, manufacturing, and test teams
Support pre-production builds, prototype integration, and ground/flight testing on the pathway to production and field deployment
Participate in design reviews, architecture discussions, and technical decision-making forums related to structural systems.
Identify opportunities to improve design processes, configuration management, and team workflows for increased engineering velocity and design quality.
Required qualifications:
B.S. in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering
2+ years in mechanical or mechanism design for ground vehicles
Strong CAD skills (NX preferred)
Structural analysis utilizing hand calculations and finite element methods
Understanding of GD&T and tolerance stack-ups for mechanical systems
Materials selection inclusive of alloys, heat treatments, allowables, and finishes
Ability to work independently in fast-paced, cross-functional teams
A demonstrated record of working hard, being trustworthy, holding yourself to high standards, and being kind to others
Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.
Preferred qualifications:
Experience with UAVs, aircraft, or robotic systems
Kinematic analysis and optimization
Familiarity with electro-mechanical actuators
FEA analysis: Modal, non-linear and linear, buckling, fatigue
Proficiency in FMEA, DOE, and root cause analysis
Hands-on machine shop or mechanic experience (professional or hobby)
MIL-STD-810, structural, or actuated mechanism testing experience
Ability to thrive in startup, R&D, or defense innovation environments
