Senior Staff Engineer, Aero-Propulsion Engineer
About Shield AI
Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company focused on protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its flagship autonomy software, Hivemind, powers aircraft, drones, and other platforms, enabling complex missions with high reliability in contested environments. With offices in San Diego, Dallas, Washington, D.C., and internationally, Shield AI’s products actively support U.S. and allied operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn,Twitter, and Instagram.
We are seeking a Senior Staff Aero-Propulsion Engineer with 10+ years of experience to lead the development, integration, and optimization of air-breathing propulsion systems for our aircraft platforms. This individual will play a key role in conceptual design, performance analysis, and system-level integration of propulsion technologies, ensuring optimal efficiency, reliability, and mission capability.
- Lead aero-propulsion system design and optimization for aircraft platforms
- Optimize propulsion integration with airframe and mission requirements
- Drive aircraft inlet and nozzle design using a range of approaches from first-order to complex CFD and test
- Integrate propulsion models into aircraft performance estimation tools
- Define propulsion system architecture, including engine selection, thrust vectoring system design, and power management strategies.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with airframe, controls, electrical, and systems engineering teams to ensure seamless propulsion integration.
- Work closely with suppliers and partners to evaluate and select propulsion system components.
- Drive testing and validation, including wind tunnel, ground, and flight tests, to refine propulsion performance and reliability.
- Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership on propulsion-related initiatives.
- B.S., M.S., or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
- 10+ years of industry experience
- 5+ years of experience in aero-propulsion system design, integration, and testing
- Expertise in inlet and nozzle design for air-breathing engines
- Experience with ground and flight testing of propulsion systems
- Strong problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills
- Background in external aerodynamics
- Experience working in a fast-paced startup or R&D environment.
Total package details for U.S. based positions:
- 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
Total package details for International positions which are roles based outside of the United States (where applicable):
- International premium, hardship differential, cost of living differential, living quarters allowance, foreign service transfer
allowance, equity, international benefits, visa assistance, and relocation assistance.
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.
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.
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At Shield AI, we're taking defense technology to the next level, and we're on the lookout for a Senior Staff Aero-Propulsion Engineer to join our innovative team! With over 10 years of expertise in the aerospace realm, you’ll lead the charge in developing and optimizing air-breathing propulsion systems for our cutting-edge aircraft platforms. Your responsibilities will include everything from conceptual design to performance analysis, ensuring our technologies deliver optimal efficiency and mission capability. Activities like driving aircraft inlet and nozzle design, integrating propulsion models, and defining system architecture will be part of your day-to-day. You won't just be in the lab; you’ll collaborate across various engineering teams and work closely with suppliers to ensure we’re using the best components available. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to mentor junior engineers, providing the technical leadership needed to push forward propulsion-related initiatives. If you're passionate about creating reliable and innovative propulsion technologies and eager to work in a fast-paced environment, Shield AI is your next stop! With competitive compensation and a commitment to employee well-being, this is an exciting opportunity to make an impact.
Our mission is to protect service members and civilians with intelligent systems.
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