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Shield AIShield AIDallas, TX

Senior Engineer, Mechanisms - Catapult (R4939)

Design and develop complex electro-mechanical mechanisms for autonomous UAV launch and recovery systems, including CAD, structural analysis, prototyping, and testing. Requires 5+ years of mechanical design experience and a BS in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.

110k – 160k/yr
On-site5+ YOEHardware Engineering

About the role

Responsibilities

  • Design complex electro-mechanical mechanisms for autonomous aircraft launch and recovery systems
  • Own 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, and test teams
  • Support pre-production builds, prototype integration, and ground/flight testing

Requirements

  • B.S. in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering
  • 5+ years in mechanical or mechanism design
  • Strong CAD skills (NX preferred)
  • Kinematic analysis and optimization
  • Structural analysis utilizing hand calculations and finite element methods
  • FEA analysis: Modal, non-linear and linear, buckling, fatigue
  • 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
  • Familiarity with electro-mechanical actuators
  • Proficiency in FMEA, DOE, and root cause analysis
  • Hands-on machine shop or mechanic experience (professional or hobby)
  • MIL-STD-810, structural, or actuated mechanism testing experience
  • Ability to thrive in startup, R&D, or defense innovation environments

Skills

CADNxKinematic AnalysisStructural AnalysisFEAGD&TTolerance Stack-UpsMaterials SelectionFinite Element MethodsElectro-Mechanical Design
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