Senior Engineer Propulsion - Engine Performance (R5907)

The role

This role owns engine calibration and performance for the reciprocating engines that power the V-BAT platform. The work covers test plans, ECU tuning, and performance analysis from bench through flight test.

What you will do

• Define test plans, calibration methodology, and acceptance criteria across dynamometer, bench, and flight test campaigns.
• Perform ECU configuration and tuning, including fuel mapping, ignition timing, and injector phasing.
• Analyze torque, power, and fuel consumption results and drive corrective action.
• Lead troubleshooting and root-cause investigations for engine testing.
• Reduce and interpret test and flight data to validate performance against requirements.
• Represent engine calibration and performance in design reviews and cross-functional discussions.
• Develop and maintain calibration documentation, procedures, and performance reporting.
• Support refinement of propulsion and vehicle performance models through test campaigns and data review.

Required qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• 5+ years of experience in a mechanical or aerospace engineering role focused on engine performance or calibration.
• Deep hands-on experience with reciprocating (piston) engines.
• Demonstrated experience with electronically controlled fuel injectors and fuel injection systems.
• Proven experience with ECU configuration and engine calibration, including ownership of calibration decisions.
• Strong ability to analyze engine torque, power, and fuel consumption data.

Nice to have

• Podium finish in FSAE competition, with at least one first place trophy in any dynamic event.
• Background in air-cooled engines, particularly aviation two-stroke platforms.
• Experience with dynamometer test cells and data acquisition systems.
• Familiarity with fuel maps, ignition timing strategies, and closed-loop engine control logic.
• Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for data reduction and calibration tooling.
• Experience writing custom data analysis tools to automate engine performance analysis.
• Experience supporting military propulsion systems, tactical aircraft, or high-performance aerospace platforms.
• M.S. or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline.

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.
• 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.