Staff Technician, Mechanical Test

The role

You will build, assemble and test large-scale structures and test articles for the X-BAT aircraft. You will install sensors and instrumentation, run mechanical load tests and document the results.

What you will do

• Construct and assemble large-scale structures and test articles from engineering drawings and CAD models.
• Support design, prototyping and fabrication of new products, R&D initiatives and flight-ready hardware.
• Install strain gauges, thermocouples and other sensors according to instrumentation schematics.
• Route cabling, integrate data acquisition systems and verify sensor calibration.
• Conduct mechanical testing by applying static and dynamic loads per engineering procedures.
• Document test outcomes and report anomalies promptly.
• Fabricate fixtures and brackets and make rapid modifications to prototype hardware.
• Perform structural repairs on aerospace-grade materials.
• Maintain records of test equipment configurations and device designations.
• Keep the shop, lab and composite areas clean, organized and safe.

Required qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in fabrication or aerospace-grade instrumentation.
• Strong background in strain gauge installation and sensor wiring.
• Hands-on experience in machine shop operations, including manual and/or CNC tools.
• Ability to read engineering drawings, schematics and detailed work instructions.
• Comfortable working in shop and lab environments with exposure to noise, dust and chemicals.
• Ability to lift and move parts and equipment up to 50 lbs. and perform physical work for extended periods.

Nice to have

• Familiarity with mechanical testing systems such as load frames and DAQ systems.
• Experience in aerospace, automotive, defense or high-performance prototyping environments.
• Knowledge of adhesives, fasteners and bonding processes for composite-to-metal interfaces.
• Able to work independently and adapt quickly to changing technical needs.
• Hands-on experience performing MIL-STD vibration, shock and thermal testing.

Benefits

• Bonus (full-time regular employees).
• Equity (full-time regular employees).
• Benefits package (full-time regular employees).
• Temporary benefits package, applicable after 60 days of employment (temporary employees).

Before you apply

• All offers are contingent on a cleared background check 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 technologies.