# Staff Engineer, Structural Designer (R4937)

**Company:** [Shield AI](https://hotfix.jobs/companies/shield-ai)
**Location:** Dallas, TX
**Role:** Hardware Engineering
**Salary:** $130k – $200k/yr
**Experience:** 7+ years
**Skills:** CAD, Nx, Kinematic Analysis, Fea (Finite Element Analysis), Modal Analysis, Non-Linear Analysis, Buckling Analysis, Fatigue Analysis, GD&T, Tolerance Stack-Ups, Materials Selection
**Posted:** 2026-05-22

> Design and develop complex structural and mechanical systems for autonomous UAV launch and recovery vehicles, owning the full design process from concept through production. Requires 7+ years of mechanism design experience, strong NX CAD and FEA skills, and a BS in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.

## Job Description

## What you'll do

- Design complex structures for the autonomous aircraft launch and recovery system
- 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, manufacturing, and test teams
- Support pre-production builds, prototype integration, and ground/flight testing on the pathway to production and field deployment
- Participate in design reviews, architecture discussions, and technical decision-making forums related to structural systems
- Identify opportunities to improve design processes, configuration management, and team workflows for increased engineering velocity and design quality

## Required Qualifications

- B.S. in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering
- 7+ years in mechanical or mechanism design for ground vehicles
- 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
- A demonstrated record of working hard, being trustworthy, holding yourself to high standards, and being kind to others

## Preferred Qualifications

- 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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