Shield AI · 11 hours ago
Senior Staff Mechanical Engineer - Launch & Recovery Systems (R4564)
Dallas, TX
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level, Lead/Staff
$167K/yr - $250K/yr
9+ years expShield AI is a venture-backed deep-tech company focused on protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. They are seeking a Senior Staff Mechanical Engineer to lead the architecture, design, and integration of mission-critical launch and recovery systems for their UAS platform.
National DefenseArtificial Intelligence (AI)TransportationDronesAutonomous VehiclesMachine LearningNational Security
No H1B
U.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Own the mechanical architecture and technical direction for launch and recovery systems across development phases
Lead the design of electromechanical actuation systems, hydraulic assemblies, deployment mechanisms, and ruggedized structural systems
Drive system-level trade studies balancing performance, reliability, maintainability, weight, and cost
Define validation strategies, oversee structural, fatigue, and environmental testing plans, and ensure technical rigor
Serve as the mechanical authority in cross-functional integration efforts with avionics, propulsion, systems engineering, and manufacturing
Lead and present in major design reviews (PDR/CDR/TRR), ensuring readiness for production and field operations
Mentor engineers and elevate design standards across the team
Provide field support during flight campaigns and operational exercises, resolving system-level issues rapidly
Qualification
Required
9–10+ years of experience in aerospace, ground systems, or heavy industrial mechanical design
Deep expertise in mechanism design, hydraulics, and ruggedized deployable systems
Advanced proficiency in CAD tools (SolidWorks, CATIA, NX, or similar)
Strong experience in structural analysis, fatigue/lifecycle validation, and material selection for harsh environments
Experience leading subsystem architecture and driving system-level decisions
Experience working directly with suppliers and managing technical execution through fabrication and integration
Ability to operate effectively in fast-paced, evolving development programs
Preferred
Experience developing aircraft launch/recovery systems or similar deployable aerospace hardware
Strong familiarity with MIL-STD requirements and ruggedization best practices
Experience leading environmental and dynamic testing campaigns
Experience supporting production ramp and field deployment
Active or eligible for U.S. Secret Clearance
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
Hanwha Aerospace,L3Harris TechnologiesHercules CapitalRiot Ventures,US Innovative Technology Fund
2025-08-01Secondary Market
2025-03-06Series F· $240M
2023-12-29Debt Financing· $200M
Leadership Team
Gary Steele
Chief Executive Officer
Brandon Tseng
Co-Founder
Recent News
2026-02-08
2026-02-06
2026-01-24
Company data provided by crunchbase