Staff Engineer, Survivability (R5885)

The role

You will shape and optimize the low observable (LO) performance of Shield AI's next-generation autonomous aircraft. You will work on radar cross-section, LO materials and electromagnetic signature modeling, with multidisciplinary teams.

What you will do

• Design and optimize low observable features across the airframe, including shaping, edge treatments, radar-absorbing materials and subsystem integration.
• Model and simulate electromagnetic signatures with tools such as HFSS, CST Studio Suite, Xpatch and SENTRi.
• Work with propulsion, avionics, structures and AI teams to build survivability into the system architecture from day one.
• Lead or support signature testing, including indoor and outdoor RCS range tests, validation campaigns and supplier hardware evaluations.
• Translate mission threats and requirements into survivability features for RCS, thermal, visual and acoustic observability.
• Partner with materials scientists to mature radar-absorbing coatings and structural RAM for manufacturability and field durability.
• Support internal and customer assessments, threat modeling reviews and milestone decisions across the program lifecycle.

Required qualifications

• B.S. or M.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline.
• Typically a minimum of 7 years of related experience in LO or survivability engineering, preferably on tactical aircraft, UAVs or stealth systems.
• Proficiency with EM simulation tools such as HFSS, CST, Xpatch or SENTRi.
• Strong understanding of RCS shaping principles, edge treatments, cavity suppression and materials integration.
• Practical experience with LO testing methods and RCS measurement equipment.
• Familiarity with radar-absorbing materials, LO coatings and structural LO trade studies.
• Solid collaboration and communication skills across design, test and manufacturing teams.
• U.S. citizenship and an active Secret clearance.
• Ability to obtain an S//SAR level security clearance.

Nice to have

• Experience with military UAV platforms or 5th-generation fighter programs.
• Background in survivability analysis in contested environments, such as IADS and radar networks.
• Familiarity with platform CONOPS, threat modeling and mission-level survivability assessments.
• Ability to contribute to the design, test and fielding of a fully integrated LO platform.
• TS/SCI clearance.

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 and an active Secret clearance are required.
• 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 protects service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation technologies.