Senior Manager, Mechanical Engineering - Actuated Systems (R2977)

To qualify for the Senior Manager, Mechanical Engineering role at Shield AI, you should possess a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field, alongside at least 8 years of hands-on experience in mechanical design and actuation systems. Importantly, you'll need a minimum of 3 years in a management or team leadership role, which will help you mentor and guide your engineering team effectively. Expertise in actuated systems and electromechanical components is essential, as well as a strong grasp of mechanical engineering principles.

As the Senior Manager, Mechanical Engineering at Shield AI, you will lead a dedicated team in designing and delivering vital actuated systems. Your responsibilities will encompass overseeing the entire product development lifecycle, collaborating with various engineering disciplines, and ensuring that designs meet stringent performance, weight, cost, and reliability targets. Additionally, you will coordinate testing and certification processes to validate system performance and ensure compliance with industry standards.

For the Senior Manager, Mechanical Engineering role at Shield AI, the estimated salary range is between $171,080 and $256,620 annually. This comprehensive compensation package includes bonuses, benefits, and potential equity, reflecting the company's commitment to rewarding skills and experience. Keep in mind that specific salary may vary based on factors such as your expertise and the location of the position.

In the role of Senior Manager, Mechanical Engineering at Shield AI, you will play a pivotal role in driving innovation in the aerospace sector. By overseeing the design and development of state-of-the-art mechanisms for autonomous aircraft, you will ensure that the solutions produced by your team are not only advanced but also reliable and efficient. Your leadership and guidance will foster a culture of problem-solving and continuous improvement, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in aviation technology.

Shield AI stands out as a unique workplace for a Senior Manager, Mechanical Engineering because of its mission-driven focus on protecting service members and civilians. Engaging in projects that directly support the U.S. Department of Defense and allies offers an unparalleled sense of purpose. Additionally, the opportunity to lead innovative engineering teams in the development of cutting-edge technologies in a collaborative environment makes it a remarkable place to grow both personally and professionally.

When addressing this question, focus on specific examples from your past roles where you led projects involving actuated systems. Highlight your contributions to the design, testing, and implementation of these systems. Discuss any challenges you faced and how you overcame them, emphasizing your technical expertise and leadership abilities.

Explain your approach to team management and mentorship. Share instances where you facilitated career development and provided guidance to your team members. Illustrate how you create an inclusive environment that encourages learning and collaboration, ultimately leading to the team's success.

Discuss your project management strategies, such as setting clear milestones, using project tracking tools, and regular communication with team members. Highlight your ability to anticipate potential issues and proactively implement solutions to keep projects on track.

Select a specific example where your problem-solving skills were instrumental. Describe the issue in detail, your analysis, the steps you took to resolve it, and the outcome. This will demonstrate your critical thinking and technical skills under pressure.

Explain your commitment to continuous learning, whether through professional organizations, conferences, online courses, or reading industry journals. Share how you apply new knowledge and technologies to your work, reflecting your proactive approach to staying at the forefront of your field.

Highlight the importance of cross-functional collaboration in engineering. Share examples of projects where you worked with other disciplines—like aerodynamics or systems engineering—to achieve successful outcomes, emphasizing your communication and teamwork skills.

Discuss your familiarity with industry regulations such as FAA and EASA standards. Provide an example of a project wherein you ensured compliance through thorough documentation, testing, and regular collaboration with regulatory bodies. This will showcase your attention to detail and commitment to quality.

Share your methodology for assessing the situation and identifying the root cause of the delay. Discuss your strategies for realigning the team, reallocating resources, and adjusting timelines while maintaining quality and performance standards.

Outline key design practices such as tolerance analysis, fatigue studies, and FMEA that you deem essential. Elaborate on how these practices contribute to reliable and high-performing systems, demonstrating your expertise and strategic thinking.

Reflect on Shield AI’s mission to protect service members and civilians through innovative technology. Discuss how the nature of the work resonates with your values, and how you believe your skills and experiences align with the company's goals, ultimately showcasing your passion for the aerospace industry.