Skip to content
Shield AIShield AIDallas, TX

Engineer II, Mechanical Designer / Drafter (R4920)

Design and develop complex mechanical structures and mechanisms for autonomous UAV launch and recovery systems. Requires BS in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering, 2+ years mechanism design experience, strong CAD (NX preferred), structural analysis, and GD&T skills.

88k – 130k/yr
On-site2+ YOEHardware Engineering

About the role

Responsibilities

  • Support the design of complex structures for autonomous aircraft launch and recovery systems
  • Support the full design process: concept, CAD, tolerance analysis, material selection, and drawing release
  • Perform structural and kinematic calculations and preliminary FEA
  • Prototype, test, and iterate mechanism designs for functionality and reliability
  • Collaborate with electrical, avionics, flight controls, manufacturing, and test teams
  • Support pre-production builds, prototype integration, and ground/flight testing
  • Participate in design reviews, architecture discussions, and technical decision-making forums
  • Identify opportunities to improve design processes, configuration management, and team workflows

Requirements

  • B.S. in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering
  • 2+ years in mechanical or mechanism design for ground vehicles
  • Strong CAD skills (NX preferred)
  • Structural analysis utilizing hand calculations and finite element methods
  • Understanding of GD&T and tolerance stack-ups for mechanical systems
  • Materials selection inclusive of alloys, heat treatments, allowables, and finishes
  • Ability to work independently in fast-paced, cross-functional teams

Nice-to-Haves

  • Experience with UAVs, aircraft, or robotic systems
  • Kinematic analysis and optimization
  • Familiarity with electro-mechanical actuators
  • FEA analysis: Modal, non-linear and linear, buckling, fatigue
  • Proficiency in FMEA, DOE, and root cause analysis
  • Hands-on machine shop or mechanic experience
  • MIL-STD-810, structural, or actuated mechanism testing experience
  • Ability to thrive in startup, R&D, or defense innovation environments

Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive salary range: $88,000 - $130,000

Skills

Mechanical EngineeringAerospace EngineeringCADNxStructural AnalysisFEAGD&TTolerance AnalysisMaterials SelectionKinematic Analysis

Similar roles

Hardware Engineering jobs
Shield AI

Engineer II, Structural Analysis

Shield AISan Diego, CA +1

Perform structural analysis and testing for advanced UAV airframes using FEA, hand calculations, and mechanical testing to ensure integrity, performance, and safety.

88k – 130k/yr
On-site2+ YOEHardware Engineering
Shield AI

Engineer II, Hydraulics (R4936)

Shield AIDallas, TX

Mechanical Engineer responsible for designing and developing complex hydraulic fluid systems for autonomous aircraft UAVs. Requires 2+ years of experience in mechanical design with a focus on fluid systems, strong CAD skills, and expertise in structural analysis and FEA.

88k – 130k/yr
On-site2+ YOEHardware Engineering
Shield AI

Engineer II, Mechanical Test (R4935)

Shield AIDallas, TX

Design, build, and operate mechanical test systems for AI aircraft and UAVs. Hands-on role validating structural integrity using hydraulics, sensors, Python automation, FEA, and NX CAD.

88k – 130k/yr
On-site2+ YOEHardware Engineering
Shield AI

Engineer II, Thermal Designer/Analyst (R4934)

Shield AIDallas, TX

Design and analyze thermal management systems for autonomous aircraft launch and recovery components. Own CFD modeling, testing, and cross-functional integration in a fast-paced defense startup.

88k – 130k/yr
On-site2+ YOEHardware Engineering
Shield AI

Engineer II, Mechanical (R4886)

Shield AIDallas, TX

Designs, analyzes, and integrates mechanical systems for V-BAT aircraft and ground support equipment, owning deliverables from concept to field support. Requires bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, 2-3 years experience, and proficiency in 3D CAD software.

88k – 130k/yr
On-site2+ YOEHardware Engineering