Shield AI · 2 months ago
Senior Propulsion Engineering Technician (R4012)
Dallas Metro Area
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
$28/hr - $42/hrShield AI is a venture-backed deep-tech company focused on protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. The role involves designing, building, and executing propulsion system tests for autonomous aircraft, requiring technical rigor and collaboration across various engineering disciplines.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)Autonomous VehiclesDronesMachine LearningNational Security
Responsibilities
Design, fabricate, assemble, and maintain custom test setups, fixtures, and instrumentation for engine and propulsion system validation
Develop and execute test plans for experimental propulsion systems and components in collaboration with engineering
Define and document test procedures and work instructions for new tests in environments with little or no precedent
Fabricate mechanical and electrical test hardware using composites, machined parts, 3D printing, adhesives, and aerospace-grade fasteners
Conduct and monitor propulsion system tests, including piston engines (preferably two-stroke)
Operate and maintain instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and specialized calibration tools
Support avionics integration, wire harness fabrication, and system-level electrical testing
Analyze test data, document findings, and provide feedback to engineering teams to improve designs and testing methodologies
Work closely with propulsion, mechanical, aerospace, structural, manufacturing, software, and electrical engineering teams to support R&D testing
Execute cross-functional test campaigns when other teams’ hardware or software integrates with propulsion systems
Ensure discipline, accuracy, and repeatability in all test results and reports
Qualification
Required
Proven experience designing and/or executing engineering test setups/fixtures, and test campaigns
Ability to self-direct test planning and execution with minimal supervision
Strong hands-on background in hardware or avionics fabrication, including machining, composites, 3D printing, adhesive bonding, and wiring harnesses
Proficiency with precision tools, calibrated measurement equipment, thread specifications, and torque procedures
Comfortable working in shop and lab environments with exposure to noise, dust, and chemicals
Ability to lift and move parts and equipment (up to 50 lbs.) and perform physical work for extended periods
Preferred
Experience in aerospace propulsion or engine development
Working knowledge of piston engines, preferably two-stroke
Experience with avionics systems, sensors, harness fabrication, and R&D testing environments
Familiarity with data acquisition systems, instrumentation calibration, and sensor integration
Deep understanding of torque, fastener, and adhesive specifications for aerospace hardware
Ability to interpret and analyze test data to inform engineering design decisions
Associates or Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline
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.
Founded in 2015
1001-5000 employees
H1B Sponsorship
Shield AI has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (3)
2024 (3)
2021 (1)
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
Company data provided by crunchbase