Staff Engineer, Structural Designer (R4937)

The role

You will design complex structures for the launch and recovery system of an autonomous aircraft. You will own the design process from concept to drawing release, and support prototype and flight testing.

What you will do

• Design complex structures for the autonomous aircraft launch and recovery system
• Own the full design process: concept, CAD, tolerance analysis, material selection and drawing release
• Perform structural and kinematic calculations and preliminary FEA
• Prototype, test and iterate mechanism designs for functionality and reliability
• Collaborate with electrical, avionics, flight controls, manufacturing and test teams
• Support pre-production builds, prototype integration and ground and flight testing
• Take part in design reviews, architecture discussions and technical decisions on structural systems
• Improve design processes, configuration management and team workflows

Required qualifications

• B.S. in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering
• 7+ years in mechanical or mechanism design for ground vehicles
• Strong CAD skills
• Kinematic analysis and optimization
• Structural analysis using hand calculations and finite element methods
• FEA: modal, non-linear and linear, buckling, fatigue
• GD&T and tolerance stack-ups for mechanical systems
• Materials selection including alloys, heat treatments, allowables and finishes
• Ability to work independently in fast-paced, cross-functional teams
• A demonstrated record of hard work, trustworthiness, high standards and kindness to others

Nice to have

• Experience with UAVs, aircraft or robotic systems
• Familiarity with electro-mechanical actuators
• Proficiency in FMEA, DOE and root cause analysis
• Hands-on machine shop or mechanic experience, professional or hobby
• MIL-STD-810, structural or actuated mechanism testing experience
• Ability to thrive in startup, R&D or defense innovation environments

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

• A 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
• Salary depends on skill set, experience, licenses and certifications, and work location

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.