Manager, Propulsion (Engine) (R5086)

The role

Lead the propulsion engineering team for the engine and thrust vector control (TVC) systems on the X-BAT vehicle, which uses a fighter-class afterburning jet engine. Work from concept through flight testing and operational deployment, and coordinate with controls, airframe, flight test, manufacturing and leadership teams.

What you will do

• Lead propulsion engineering for engine and TVC development, integration, testing and flight operations.
• Support and mentor propulsion Responsible Engineers for engine modules, nozzles, actuators and vectoring hardware.
• Drive technical execution, staffing, prioritization and schedule alignment across propulsion activities.
• Guide propulsion trade studies covering thermodynamics, transient behavior, thermal management, structural integration and operability limits.
• Coordinate with controls, airframe and mission teams so propulsion supports maneuverability, survivability and CONOPS requirements.
• Support root cause investigations, performance anomalies, design reviews and flight readiness activities.
• Drive technical rigor, accountability and measurable execution across the propulsion organization.
• Collaborate with suppliers and external partners on propulsion hardware and testing.

Required qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• 7-10+ years of experience in propulsion system development, integration, test or flight operations.
• Experience leading engineering teams or large cross-functional technical efforts.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer and aerospace propulsion fundamentals.
• Deep understanding of gas turbine engine operation, transient response, thrust production, operability limits and thermal constraints.
• Hands-on experience supporting propulsion hardware development and test programs.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• U.S. citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements.

Nice to have

• Experience with fighter-class or low-bypass turbofan propulsion systems.
• Familiarity with engine controls, TVC systems, transient response and actuator integration.
• Experience with GFSSP, REFPROP, ANSYS, FEA or propulsion performance analysis tools.
• Background in rocket propulsion or thrust vector control systems.
• Experience operating in hardware-centric, test-driven aerospace environments.
• M.S. or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering or a related discipline.

Benefits

• Bonus for full-time regular employees.
• 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 technologies.