Propulsion Engineering Technician (R6045)

The role

This job is a Propulsion Engineering Technician at shieldai. The technician designs, builds and runs test setups and test campaigns for engine and propulsion systems, and reports results to engineering teams.

What you will do

• Design, fabricate, assemble and maintain test setups, fixtures and instrumentation for engine and propulsion system validation
• Develop and execute test plans for experimental propulsion systems and components with engineering
• Define and document test procedures and work instructions for new tests
• Fabricate mechanical and electrical test hardware using composites, machined parts, 3D printing, adhesives and aerospace fasteners
• Conduct and monitor propulsion system tests, including piston engine and propeller tests
• Operate and maintain instrumentation, data acquisition systems and calibration tools
• Support avionics integration, wire harness fabrication and system-level electrical testing
• Analyze test data, document findings and give feedback to engineering teams
• Work with propulsion, mechanical, aerospace, structural, manufacturing, software and electrical engineering teams on R&D testing
• Execute cross-functional test campaigns and ensure accuracy and repeatability in results and reports

Required qualifications

• Proven experience designing and/or executing engineering test setups, fixtures and test campaigns
• Ability to self-direct test planning and execution with minimal supervision
• Strong hands-on background in hardware or avionics fabrication, including machining, 3D printing, adhesive bonding and/or wiring harnesses
• Proficiency with precision tools, calibrated measurement equipment, power tools, thread specifications and torque procedures
• 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

• Experience in aerospace propulsion or engine development
• Working knowledge of piston engines, preferably two-stroke
• Experience with avionics systems, sensors, harness fabrication and R&D testing environments
• Familiarity with data acquisition systems, instrumentation calibration and sensor integration
• Deep understanding of torque, fastener and adhesive specifications for aerospace hardware
• Ability to interpret and analyze test data to inform engineering design decisions
• Experience with command line syntax or microcontroller programming (Arduino or similar)

Benefits

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

Before you apply

• All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check
• Salary is influenced by skill set, experience level, licenses and certifications, and specific work location
• 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.