Senior Mechanical Design Engineer (San Diego)

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent, autonomous systems. Its products include Hivemind Enterprise—EdgeOS, Pilot, Commander, and Forge—as well as V-BAT and Sentient Vision Systems (wide-area motion imaging software). With offices in San Diego, Dallas, Washington, D.C., Abu Dhabi (UAE), Kyiv (Ukraine), and Melbourne (Australia), Shield AI’s technology actively supports U.S. and allied operations worldwide.For more information, visit Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn,X and Instagram.Job Description:Shield AI is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer with deep expertise in mechanism design to support the development of our next-generation autonomous UAV platform. In this high-ownership role, you will lead the architecture, design, and development of precision mechanical systems and actuation mechanisms that are critical to mission success.You will work closely with cross-functional teams to create rugged, lightweight, and manufacturable mechanisms-ranging from landing gear to deployable payload systems-while delivering high performance in dynamic and harsh environments. This is an opportunity to design at the edge of innovation and autonomy, with real-world impact.What you'll do:Design complex electro-mechanical mechanisms for autonomous aircraftOwn the full design process: concept, CAD, tolerance analysis, material selection, and drawing releasePerform structural and kinematic calculations and preliminary FEAPrototype, test, and iterate mechanism designs for functionality and reliabilityCollaborate with electrical, avionics, flight controls, and propulsion teamsMentor junior engineers and promote engineering excellenceSupport pre-production builds, prototype integration, and ground/flight testingRequired qualifications:B.S. in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering5+ years in mechanical or mechanism designStrong CAD skills (NX preferred)Kinematic analysis and optimizationStructural analysis utilizing hand calculations and finite element methodsFEA analysis: Modal, non-linear and linear, buckling, fatigueGD&T and tolerance stack-ups for mechanical systemsMaterials selection inclusive of alloys, heat treatments, allowables, and finishesAbility to work independently and lead in fast-paced, cross-functional teamsA demonstrated record of working hard, being trustworthy, holding yourselfto high standards, and being kind to othersPreferred qualifications:Experience with UAVs, aircraft, or robotic systemsFamiliarity with electro-mechanical actuatorsProficiency in FMEA, DOE, and root cause analysisHands-on machine shop or mechanic experience (professional or hobby)RTCA DO-160, structural, or actuated mechanism testing experienceAbility to thrive in startup, R&D, or defense innovation environments$110,400 - $165,600 a year#LI-JW2#LCFull-time regular employee offer package:Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + EquityTemporary employee offer package:Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.###Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed toequal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know. #J-18808-Ljbffr

Created: 2025-09-17