Engineering Manager - Mechanical (SD) at Shield AI

California, United States

Shield AI Logo
Not SpecifiedCompensation
Senior (5 to 8 years), Expert & Leadership (9+ years)Experience Level
Full TimeJob Type
UnknownVisa
Defense, AerospaceIndustries

Requirements

  • B.S. in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering
  • Demonstrable and successful leadership experience including hiring, budgeting
  • 10+ 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

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
  • Lead a team of engineers developing mechanical systems to support Shield AI’s next generation aircraft program(s)
  • Work with the director of engineering in a deputy capacity to support collaboration across engineering sites
  • Align technical leaders
  • Create mentorship opportunities for junior engineers
  • Assist in leveling engineering resources across vehicles and programs
  • Set the bar for excellence through technical demonstration, guidance, and mentorship

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

NXCADKinematic analysisStructural analysisFEAFinite element methodsModal analysisNon-linear FEALinear FEAHand calculations

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What is the salary range for the Engineering Manager - Mechanical role?

The salary range is $177,824 - $266,736 a year, with full-time regular employee offers including pay within this range plus bonus, benefits, and equity.

Is this position remote or does it require working in an office?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What are the required qualifications for this Engineering Manager role?

Required qualifications include a B.S. in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering, demonstrable leadership experience including hiring and budgeting, 10+ years in mechanical or mechanism design, strong CAD skills (NX preferred), kinematic analysis, structural analysis with hand calculations and FEA, GD&T, materials selection, and ability to work independently in fast-paced teams.

What is the company culture like at Shield AI?

Shield AI emphasizes high-ownership, high-visibility roles, setting the bar for excellence through technical demonstration, guidance, and mentorship, creating mentorship opportunities for junior engineers, and values a demonstrated record of working hard, being trustworthy, holding yourself to high standards, and being kind to others.

What makes a strong candidate for this Engineering Manager position?

Strong candidates will have the required B.S. in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering, 10+ years experience, leadership in hiring and budgeting, and core technical skills, plus preferred experience with UAVs, electro-mechanical actuators, FMEA/DOE/root cause analysis, hands-on shop experience, and ability to thrive in startup or defense R&D environments.

Shield AI

Develops AI and autonomous systems for defense

About Shield AI

Shield AI specializes in creating artificial intelligence and autonomous systems specifically for the defense industry. The company develops AI-powered systems, including autonomous drones, that assist military operations, especially in environments where GPS and communication may not be available. This technology allows for safer and more efficient defense operations. Shield AI differentiates itself from competitors by focusing on advanced AI capabilities and securing significant contracts with government and military clients, such as the multi-billion dollar EWAAC contract. The company's goal is to enhance operational capabilities and safety in military contexts, ultimately aiming to protect lives through its innovative solutions.

San Diego, CaliforniaHeadquarters
2015Year Founded
$772.8MTotal Funding
DEBTCompany Stage
AI & Machine Learning, DefenseIndustries
501-1,000Employees

Benefits

Medical Insurance Coverage
Long Term Disability Insurance
Health Care FSA and Dependent Care FSA
Employee Assistance Program
Subsidized Gym Membership
Pet Insurance
Competitive Compensation
Retirement Services
Life Insurance
Parental Leave
Bereavement Support
Flexible Work Hours
PTO
Paid Holidays
Commuter Benefits
Relaxed Dress Code
Yearly Swag Items
Unlimited Snacks
Bottomless Beverages
Annual Celebrations
Work From Home Benefits
Standing Desks and Widescreen Monitors

Risks

Increased competition from companies like Waymo could divert investment from Shield AI.
Geopolitical tensions may challenge the JSW Defence partnership for V-BAT production in India.
Dependency on Palantir's infrastructure may limit Shield AI's operational flexibility.

Differentiation

Shield AI's Hivemind is the first autonomous AI pilot deployed in combat since 2018.
Strategic partnerships with Palantir and JSW Defence enhance technological capabilities and market reach.
Shield AI's V-BAT drone is selected for a $198 million U.S. Coast Guard contract.

Upsides

Increased demand for autonomous systems in defense boosts Shield AI's market potential.
Successful multi-aircraft autonomous flight tests showcase advanced AI piloting capabilities.
Significant investment in robotics indicates a robust market for Shield AI's offerings.

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