Staff Mechanical Engineer - Launch & Recovery Systems at Shield AI

Dallas, Texas, United States

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

Requirements

  • 8+ years of experience in mechanical design for aerospace, ground support equipment, or heavy industrial systems
  • Expertise in CAD software (SolidWorks, CATIA, NX, or similar) for 3D modeling, drawing creation, and system layout
  • Strong background in structural analysis, material selection, and manufacturing processes for ruggedized systems
  • Experience designing deployable, transportable, and field-ready aerospace support equipment
  • Knowledge of MIL-STD design requirements for aerospace ground support systems
  • Experience with finite element analysis (FEA), thermal analysis, and fatigue/lifecycle testing
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, agile development environment with evolving priorities

Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and integrate mechanical systems for launch and recovery, including electromechanical actuators, hydraulic systems, and robust deployment mechanisms
  • Create detailed CAD models, mechanical drawings, and documentation to support prototyping and production
  • Perform mechanical and structural analysis to validate the integrity and performance of critical systems in real-world operating environments
  • Partner with flight operations, avionics, systems, and manufacturing teams to ensure seamless integration and functionality of launch/recovery systems
  • Lead design reviews and collaborate on system-level trade studies to balance performance, maintainability, and cost
  • Support hands-on prototyping and iterative development, including testing and field validation
  • Author technical documentation, system procedures, and test plans to support flight and operational teams
  • Provide engineering support during field exercises and test events, ensuring readiness and reliability of all recovery systems

Skills

CAD
Mechanism Design
Hydraulics
Electromechanical Actuators
Structural Analysis
Prototyping
Mechanical Drawings
Documentation

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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