Prototype Technician (R3403)

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent, autonomous systems. Its products include Hivemind Enterprise—EdgeOS, Pilot, Commander, and Forge—as well as V-BAT and Sentient Vision Systems (wide-area motion imaging software). With offices in San Diego, Dallas, Washington, D.C., Abu Dhabi (UAE), Kyiv (Ukraine), and Melbourne (Australia), Shield AI’s technology actively supports U.S. and allied operations worldwide.  For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X and Instagram.    

Job Description:

The Prototype Technician is responsible for the precision assembly, inspection, and testing of complex early-design stage wire harnesses, PCBAs, and composite structures used in aircraft and aerospace systems. This role requires adherence to stringent quality standards, detailed technical specifications, and industry regulations (such as IPC/WHMA-A-620 and AS9100). The technician will contribute to building high-reliability products that meet the safety and performance requirements of aerospace applications.

• Read and interpret aerospace schematics, technical drawings, and detailed work instructions.
• Measure, cut, strip, crimp, and terminate wires and cables to precise tolerances using specialized tools and equipment.
• Assemble wire harnesses, connectors, backshells, and shielding components per aerospace industry standards.
• Route wires carefully to meet form board layouts, bend radii, and environmental specifications.
• Perform board hardening and gel coating procedures
• Coordinate with Avionics team members for the successful testing and provisioning of software on to Boards

• Conduct engine assembly, disassembly, and integration for UAV propulsion systems.
• Perform composite assembly work including basic layup procedures, bonding, vacuum bagging, running cure cycles, etc.
• Diagnose and resolve mechanical, electrical, and performance issues
• Work closely with engineers and flight test teams to ensure system readiness.

• Perform visual inspections, continuity testing, and high-voltage insulation resistance testing to verify conformance to aerospace standards.
• Ensure all work adheres to IPC/WHMA-A-620 Class 3, AS9100, and other aerospace quality requirements.
• Identify and repair defects, ensuring zero tolerance for errors that could impact safety or reliability.
• Maintain traceability of all components, wires, and work performed

• Accurately complete production records, test logs, and quality assurance reports.
• Maintain detailed documentation for traceability and compliance with aerospace industry standards.

• Work closely with engineers, quality control, and production teams to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues.
• Provide feedback for process improvements and ensure compliance with lean manufacturing principles.

• Follow all safety regulations, including ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) prevention, PPE requirements, and cleanroom protocols where applicable.
• Maintain a clean and organized workspace in line with aerospace safety standards.

• Strong proficiency in reading and interpreting aerospace schematics, blueprints, and work instructions.
• Experience in wire harness assembly, including crimping, soldering, and connector assembly.
• Experience handling and working with PCBAs
• Composite assembly skills including basic layup procedures, bonding, vacuum bagging, running cure cycles, etc.
• Engine assembly, disassembly, and integration
• Familiarity with aerospace-specific components such as MIL-SPEC connectors, backshells, braiding, and shielding.
• Experience with quality standards like IPC/WHMA-A-620 Class 3, AS9100, and MIL-STD requirements.

• Ability to work with tight tolerances and ensure 100% quality in all wire harness assemblies.
• Strong problem-solving skills for identifying and addressing manufacturing defects.

• IPC/WHMA-A-620 Certification required or willingness to obtain.
• Certification in soldering to J-STD-001 standards preferred.

• Ability to work with small components, perform repetitive tasks, and sit or stand for extended periods.
• Good manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 5+ years of experience in wire harness assembly, preferably in aerospace, aviation, or defense industries.

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Full-time regular employee offer package:

Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity

Temporary employee offer package:

Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)

Salary 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. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.

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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.