Senior Propulsion Test Engineer (R4639)

The role

You will lead propulsion test campaigns for the X-BAT platform, owning the work from test architecture and stand design through execution, data analysis and iteration. You will be the focal point for propulsion testing and work closely with propulsion, design, controls, airframe and flight test teams.

What you will do

• Own the propulsion test program from requirements through execution, data review and test-to-flight handoff.
• Architect, design, analyze and build test stands and fixtures for engine, fuel, oil, bleed air and TVC-related testing.
• Define instrumentation plans, DAQ architecture, calibration methods and test procedures.
• Lead ground test campaigns, including performance mapping, transient response and edge-of-envelope testing.
• Analyze test data to validate performance, identify anomalies and drive design or control updates.
• Partner with propulsion and controls engineers to ensure test coverage closes risk against CONOPS and mission profiles.
• Drive root cause investigations for test anomalies and implement corrective actions.
• Author test plans, reports and readiness reviews; represent propulsion test in design and flight readiness reviews.

Required qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• 5+ years of experience in propulsion or engine testing in aerospace development environments.
• Hands-on experience with engine test cells, test stand design, instrumentation and DAQ systems.
• Strong understanding of gas turbine engine performance, transients and test methodologies.
• Proficiency in Python (or similar) for data reduction, automation and analysis workflows.
• Experience supporting flight test readiness and test-to-flight transitions.
• U.S. Citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements.

Nice to have

• Experience testing low-bypass turbofan engines or propulsion subsystems on UAVs or tactical aircraft.
• Familiarity with REFPROP, GFSSP, ANSYS or FEA to support test interpretation and correlation.
• Experience designing structural test fixtures, load paths, thermal management and safety systems for hot-fire environments.
• Background in controls integration, actuator testing (e.g., TVC) and transient characterization.
• Experience operating in a test-driven, hardware-centric aerospace development environment.
• M.S. in Aerospace Engineering or a related discipline.

Benefits

• Bonus and equity for full-time regular employees.
• Benefits package for full-time regular employees.
• Temporary benefits package for temporary employees, applicable after 60 days of employment.

Before you apply

• U.S. Citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements is required.
• Ability to obtain an S//SAR level security clearance is desired.
• All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check.
• Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits.

About the company

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company that builds intelligent systems to protect service members and civilians. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies.