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:
The L4 Staff Welder is a senior-level fabrication specialist responsible for precision welding, prototype development, and low-volume aerospace hardware fabrication in a fast-paced R&D and prototype manufacturing environment. This role supports engineering teams in building flight-critical and mission-critical components using advanced welding techniques and aerospace-grade materials. The ideal candidate combines expert welding craftsmanship with strong problem-solving skills, blueprint interpretation, and collaboration in prototype development cycles. Aerospace prototype welders are commonly expected to work with TIG/GTAW processes, interpret engineering drawings with GD&T, and support AS9100-quality environments.
What you'll do:
Perform precision TIG/GTAW welding on aerospace materials including stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, Inconel.
Fabricate prototype assemblies, fixtures, tooling, and development hardware from engineering drawings, CAD models, and sketches.
Read and interpret blueprints, welding symbols, and GD&T requirements.
Work closely with design, manufacturing, and test engineers to iterate prototype designs rapidly.
Execute welds capable of meeting aerospace inspection standards including dye penetrant, leak testing, and X-ray inspection where required.
Set up and operate welding and fabrication equipment including TIG welders, orbital welders, saws, grinders, positioners, and fixturing tools.
Inspect completed welds for dimensional accuracy, penetration, distortion, and cosmetic quality.
Repair weld defects and recommend process improvements to improve manufacturability and repeatability.
Support development and qualification of welding procedures and work instructions.
Maintain compliance with AS9100, AWS, OSHA, and internal quality standards.
Mentor junior welders and assist in establishing best practices within the fabrication shop.
Document fabrication activities, process notes, and prototype deviations accurately.
Required qualifications:
High school diploma or GED required; technical welding certification preferred.
8+ years of precision welding experience in aerospace, motorsports, defense, or prototype manufacturing environments.
Expert-level TIG/GTAW welding proficiency.
Experience welding thin-wall tubing and precision assemblies.
Ability to pass aerospace weld qualification tests in multiple positions and materials.
Strong understanding of metallurgy, weld distortion control, heat management, and fixturing.
Ability to read complex engineering drawings and GD&T.
Experience with aerospace inspection requirements and quality systems.
Strong communication and collaboration skills in cross-functional engineering environments.
Preferred qualifications:
AWS D17.1 or equivalent aerospace welding certification.
Experience with pressure vessels, propulsion systems, fluid systems, or flight hardware.
Familiarity with vacuum, leak-check, or clean-room fabrication requirements.
Fabrication or machining familiarity.
Experience in prototype or R&D environments supporting rapid iteration cycles.
Ability to support design-for-manufacturing feedback during product development.
Physical requirements:
Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs.
Comfortable working around welding fumes, heat, and fabrication equipment while using PPE.
Manual dexterity and visual acuity for precision weld work.
Work environment:
This position operates within a prototype aerospace fabrication shop supporting rapid development programs. Work may involve quick-turn engineering changes, low-volume production, and high-precision hardware fabrication under tight schedules.
Typical skills for success:
Precision craftsmanship
Attention to detail
Strong troubleshooting ability
Ownership mentality
Adaptability in fast-paced prototype environments
Collaboration with engineering teams
