# Senior Engineer, Mechanisms - Catapult (R4939)

**Company:** [Shield AI](https://hotfix.jobs/companies/shield-ai)
**Location:** Dallas, TX
**Role:** Hardware Engineering
**Salary:** $110k – $160k/yr
**Experience:** 5+ years
**Skills:** CAD, Nx, Kinematic Analysis, Structural Analysis, FEA, GD&T, Tolerance Stack-Ups, Materials Selection, Finite Element Methods, Electro-Mechanical Design
**Posted:** 2026-05-22

> 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.

## Job Description

## 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

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