Mechanical Product Design Engineer (R2784)

Introduction to Shield AI

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company whose mission is to protect service members and civilians with intelligent systems. In pursuit of this mission, Shield AI is building the world’s best AI pilot. Its AI pilot, Hivemind, has flown a fighter jet (F-16), a vertical takeoff and landing drone (V-BAT), and a quadcopter (Nova). The company has offices in San Diego, Dallas, Washington DC and abroad. Shield AI’s products and people are currently in the field actively supporting operations with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. allies. 

Job Description:

Are you a visionary Mechanical Engineer with a flair for Product Design? Do you thrive on turning ideas into groundbreaking products that make a difference? If so, we want you on our team!

Shield AI is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Hardware Product Design Engineer with a strong focus on mechanical design to join our dynamic team. In this role, you will be responsible for designing, developing, and testing mechanical components and systems for our autonomous products. Your work will directly impact the safety and efficacy of our intelligent systems used in critical defense applications.

• Lead the design and development of mechanical components, enclosures, and structural elements for autonomous systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including electrical, software, and systems engineering, to ensure seamless integration and functionality of mechanical components.
• Create detailed CAD models, drawings, and BOM (Bill of Materials) for mechanical products.
• Develop and implement rigorous testing protocols to ensure mechanical reliability, performance, and compliance with industry standards.
• Conduct mechanical validation and verification, including stress analysis, thermal analysis, and environmental testing.
• Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical issues through systematic analysis and testing.
• Generate comprehensive documentation for mechanical designs, including specifications, test plans, and user manuals.
• Ensure all designs meet relevant regulatory and compliance standards.
• Maintain thorough records of design iterations, test results, and product revisions.
• Identify and implement improvements to existing mechanical designs to enhance performance, reliability, and manufacturability.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends to incorporate the latest advancements into product designs.
• Participate in brainstorming and concept development sessions to drive innovation within the team.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in mechanical design and development, preferably in the defense or aerospace industries.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, CATIA).
• Strong understanding of materials science, structural analysis, and thermal management.
• Experience with mechanical validation and compliance testing.
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes and materials, particularly for rugged and high-reliability applications.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• You have a demonstrated record of working hard, being a trustworthy teammate, holding yourself and others to high standards, and being kind to others. 
• Demonstrated track record of assuming ownership over development processes and features and delivering outstanding outcomes  

• M.S. degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent. 
• Leadership experience on a project team 
• Problem solving skills including root cause investigation, failure analysis, and DOE 
• Experience using Siemens NX 
• Experience working on cutting-edge autonomous robotic systems  
• Proven background in thriving within fast-paced environments, particularly within startup or R&D settings 
• Demonstrated adaptability, agility, and the ability to innovate under pressure to meet dynamic project demands and drive successful outcomes. 

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Total package details:

Regular employee positions: Salary within range listed above + Bonus + Benefits + Equity

Temporary employee positions: Hourly within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)

*Interns/Military Fellows/Part-time not eligible for bonus, benefits or equity

Actual compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check.

If you're interested in being part of our team, apply now! 

Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.