Principal Fuel Systems Engineer (R3300) at Shield AI

United States

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

Senior (5 to 8 years), Expert & Leadership (9+ years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Aerospace, Defense, Autonomous SystemsIndustries

Requirements

B.S. or M.S. in Aerospace, Mechanical, or related engineering discipline
12–15+ years of experience in aircraft fuel systems, aerospace fluids, or propulsion integration
Demonstrated expertise with fuel system design, analysis, and certification for manned or unmanned aircraft
Deep understanding of fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and CFD principles
Proficiency with analysis and modeling tools (ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, MATLAB/Simulink) and CAD software (NX, CATIA, or SolidWorks)
Strong technical leadership and mentoring experience within multidisciplinary teams
Familiarity with FAA and MIL-STD certification requirements and validation testing
U.S. Citizenship required
For remote candidates - ability to travel up to 25%
Preferred qualifications
Experience with UAV, fighter, or ISR platform development
Proven success leading complex fuel system programs from concept through flight test
Knowledge of advanced or low-observable fuel system technologies, vapor suppression, and hybrid-electric integration
Active or previous security clearance

Responsibilities

Architect end-to-end fuel systems including storage, transfer, venting, and pressurization for next-gen autonomous aircraft
Lead cross-functional integration between propulsion, structures, avionics, and thermal teams to ensure optimal system performance
Conduct system-level modeling and analysis to predict flow behavior, vapor suppression, slosh dynamics, and thermal effects
Define performance requirements and verification strategies for high-reliability components and assemblies
Lead design reviews, technical trade studies, and risk assessments for critical systems
Oversee supplier selection, qualification, and acceptance testing for pumps, valves, tanks, and sensors
Support and guide ground and flight test campaigns; perform root-cause analysis for system anomalies
Mentor engineers, establish best practices, and develop processes for system integration and testing
Contribute to long-term technology roadmaps, including hybrid-electric and alternative fuel system architectures

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Fuel Systems ArchitectureFuel StorageFuel TransferVenting SystemsPressurization SystemsSlosh DynamicsThermal AnalysisFlow ModelingSystem IntegrationSupplier QualificationDesign ReviewsRisk AssessmentPumpsValvesFuel TanksSensors

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What is the work arrangement for this role?

On-site or hybrid work is preferred; however, for highly qualified candidates, a remote arrangement may be considered with up to 25% travel.

What are the required qualifications for this position?

Candidates need a B.S. or M.S. in Aerospace, Mechanical, or related engineering discipline, 12–15+ years of experience in aircraft fuel systems, aerospace fluids, or propulsion integration, expertise in fuel system design, analysis, and certification, deep understanding of fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and CFD principles, proficiency with tools like ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, MATLAB/Simulink, and CAD software, strong technical leadership, and familiarity with FAA and MIL-STD requirements. U.S. Citizenship is required.

What salary or compensation does this role offer?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What does the company culture or team environment look like?

The role involves leading and mentoring engineers, working within multidisciplinary teams across propulsion, structures, avionics, and thermal groups, and driving technical excellence in a growing air vehicle portfolio at a venture-backed deep-tech company focused on intelligent systems.

What makes a strong candidate for this Principal Fuel Systems Engineer role?

Highly qualified candidates have 12–15+ years of aircraft fuel systems experience, expertise in design and certification, proficiency in analysis tools and CAD, leadership in multidisciplinary teams, and may qualify for remote work.

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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