Shield AI · 5 days ago
Lead Survivability Engineer (Dallas) (R4030)
San Diego, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level, Lead/Staff
$168K/yr - $253K/yr
7+ years expShield AI is a venture-backed deep-tech company focused on protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. The Lead Survivability Engineer will shape and optimize the low observable performance of next-generation autonomous aircraft, working across disciplines to ensure survivability in contested airspace.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)Autonomous VehiclesDronesMachine LearningNational Security
No H1B
Security Clearance RequiredU.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Design and optimize low observable (LO) features across the airframe focusing on shaping, edge treatments, radar-absorbing materials, and subsystem integration
Conduct modeling and simulation of electromagnetic signatures using industry-standard tools such as HFSS, CST Studio Suite, Xpatch, and SENTRi
Work with multidisciplinary teams in propulsion, avionics, structures, and AI to ensure survivability is baked into the system architecture from day one
Lead or support signature testing efforts, including indoor and outdoor RCS range tests, validation campaigns, and supplier-level hardware evaluations
Translate mission threats and requirements into survivability features that address RCS, thermal, visual, and acoustic observability constraints
Partner with materials scientists to mature radar-absorbing coatings and structural RAM for manufacturability and field durability
Support internal and customer assessments, threat modeling reviews, and milestone decisions throughout the program lifecycle
Qualification
Required
B.S. or M.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline
7+ years of hands-on experience in LO or survivability engineering, preferably on tactical aircraft, UAVs, or stealth systems
Proficiency with EM simulation tools such as HFSS, CST, Xpatch, or SENTRi
Strong understanding of RCS shaping principles, edge treatments, cavity suppression, and materials integration
Practical experience with LO testing methods and RCS measurement equipment
Familiarity with radar-absorbing materials (RAM), LO coatings, and structural LO trade studies
Solid collaboration and communication skills with the ability to work across design, test, and manufacturing teams
U.S. Citizenship and active Secret clearance required (TS/SCI preferred)
Preferred
Experience with military UAV platforms or 5th-gen fighter programs
Background in survivability analysis in contested environments (e.g., IADS, radar networks)
Familiarity with platform CONOPS, threat modeling, and mission-level survivability assessments
Ability to contribute to the design, test, and fielding of a fully integrated LO platform
Benefits
Bonus
Benefits
Equity
Temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
Company
Shield AI
Shield AI is a deep-tech company that focuses on developing AI-powered systems to enhance the safety of service members and civilians.
1001-5000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
$1.31BKey Investors
Hercules CapitalUS Innovative Technology FundSnowpoint Ventures
2025-03-06Series F· $240M
2023-12-29Debt Financing· $200M
2023-10-31Series F· $300M
Leadership Team
Gary Steele
Chief Executive Officer
Brandon Tseng
Co-Founder
Recent News
Washington Technology
2026-01-11
Company data provided by crunchbase