# Staff Engineer, Mechanical Design - Launch and Recovery Systems (R4571)

**Company:** [Shield AI](https://hotfix.jobs/companies/shield-ai)
**Location:** Dallas, TX
**Role:** Hardware Engineering
**Salary:** $137k – $205k/yr
**Experience:** 7+ years
**Skills:** Solidworks, CATIA, Nx, FEA, Mil-Std, Structural Analysis, Thermal Analysis, Fatigue Analysis, CAD, Aerospace Gse
**Posted:** 2026-03-27

> Leads design, development, and testing of mechanical Ground Support Equipment for AI-powered UAS, including launch/recovery systems. Requires 7+ years in aerospace mechanical design, CAD expertise, and structural analysis for rugged, field-deployable systems.

## Job Description

## Responsibilities
- Design and develop mechanical systems for Ground Support Equipment (GSE), including power units, transport structures, launch & recovery systems, and maintenance tools.
- Create detailed CAD models, drawings, and specifications for manufacturing and assembly.
- Conduct structural, thermal, and fatigue analysis to ensure durability and reliability of GSE in field environments.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate GSE with aircraft systems and mission operations.
- Perform trade studies and system optimization to enhance portability, ruggedness, and maintainability of support systems.
- Oversee prototyping, testing, and validation of GSE designs to meet military and aviation standards.
- Develop technical documentation, test procedures, and support manuals for field operations.
- Work with suppliers and manufacturing partners to ensure cost-effective production and sustainment of GSE.
- Support flight test campaigns by providing engineering support for ground systems and test operations.

## Required Qualifications
- 7+ 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.

## Preferred Qualifications
- Experience designing UAS or military aircraft ground support equipment.
- Knowledge of power distribution, hydraulics, and environmental control systems for aerospace applications.
- Experience with DoD acquisition, sustainment, and field deployment strategies.
- Prior experience supporting military aircraft maintenance and sustainment operations.
- Active **Secret** or **Top Secret** clearance (or ability to obtain one).

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