Senior Propulsion Technician (R4638)

The role

You will assemble, test, troubleshoot and maintain low-bypass turbofan engines for UAV propulsion systems. The work happens in test cells and during pre-flight and post-flight operations, on the X-BAT Propulsion Engineering team.

What you will do

• Conduct engine assembly, disassembly and integration for UAV propulsion systems.
• Perform pre-flight and post-flight inspections of propulsion systems.
• Operate test cells for engine validation, tuning and troubleshooting.
• Diagnose and resolve mechanical, electrical and performance issues in propulsion systems.
• Work closely with engineers and flight test teams to ensure system readiness.
• Maintain detailed records of maintenance activities, inspections and modifications.
• Follow strict safety protocols and standard operating procedures.

Required qualifications

• Minimum 3-5 years of experience working on aircraft engines (military or civilian).
• Prior experience at an aerospace company or military aviation unit.
• Strong troubleshooting skills with gas turbine, reciprocating or hybrid propulsion systems.
• Ability to interpret technical manuals, schematics and engineering documents.
• Comfortable working in high-energy, high-precision environments.
• Strong safety mindset with meticulous attention to detail.
• U.S. citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements.

Nice to have

• Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) License.
• Military background, particularly in jet propulsion, UAVs or rotary-wing aircraft.
• Experience with unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) propulsion.
• Knowledge of fuel systems, ignition systems and advanced propulsion technologies.
• Hands-on experience with engine dynamometers, test cells or ground support equipment.
• FAA Powerplant or military equivalent engine qualifications.
• Ability to work independently, taking ownership of full-cycle propulsion system maintenance.

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

• 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.