Engineering Manager, Mechanical Systems

About Shield AI

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed deep-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include the V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, Hivemind Enterprise, and the Hivemind Vision product lines. With nine offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and the Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide.

Job Summary

Shield AI is seeking an engineering manager of Mechanical Design to support the development of our next-generation autonomous UAV platform. In this high-ownership, high visibility role you will lead a team of engineers developing mechanical systems to support Shield AI’s next generation aircraft program(s).

Key Responsibilities

• Support design reviews by providing feedback and signoff.
• Scope resources to support aircraft development.
• Assign individuals to projects and rebalance needs as required.
• Create processes and documentation that guide the development of systems.

Required Qualifications

• B.S. in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering
• Demonstrable and successful leadership experience including hiring, budgeting, 7+ years in mechanical or mechanism design
• Strong CAD skills (NX preferred)
• Kinematic analysis and optimization
• Structural analysis utilizing hand calculations and finite element methods
• FEA analysis: Modal, non-linear and linear, buckling, fatigue
• GD&T and tolerance stack-ups for mechanical systems
• Materials selection inclusive of alloys, heat treatments, allowables, and finishes
• Ability to work independently and lead in fast-paced, cross-functional teams
• A demonstrated record of working hard, being trustworthy, holding yourself to high standards, and being kind to others

Preferred Qualifications

• 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)
• RTCA DO-160, structural, or actuated mechanism testing experience
• Ability to thrive in startup, R&D, or defense innovation environments

Benefits & Perks

Full-time regular employee offer package: Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity. Temporary employee offer package: Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment).