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Shield AIShield AIDallas, TX

Senior Staff Engineer, Structures - Launch Recovery Vehicle (R4765)

Leads design, analysis, and testing of mechanical structures for launch and recovery systems on autonomous UAS. Requires 10+ years in aerospace mechanical design, CAD expertise, and structural analysis for rugged, field-deployable equipment.

160k – 240k/yr
On-site10+ YOEHardware Engineering

About the role

Responsibilities

  • Design and develop mechanical systems for a Launch and Recovery System, including power units, transport structures, launch & recovery functions, 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 launcher systems in field environments.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate launcher 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 launcher 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 launcher system.
  • Support flight test campaigns by providing engineering support for ground and test operations.

Required Qualifications

  • 10+ 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 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).

Skills

SolidworksCATIANxFEAStructural AnalysisThermal AnalysisFatigue AnalysisCADMil-StdAerospace Structures

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