# Staff Engineer, Mechanical Test

**Company:** [Shield AI](https://hotfix.jobs/companies/shield-ai)
**Location:** Dallas, TX
**Role:** Hardware Engineering
**Salary:** $130k – $200k/yr
**Experience:** 8+ years
**Skills:** hydraulic systems, Python, siemens nx, finite element analysis, sensor instrumentation, load cells, pressure transducers, strain gauges, accelerometers, test automation, signal processing, CAD, composite materials, mts, moog aerospace
**Posted:** 2026-08-03

> Leads the design, automation, and execution of mechanical and structural tests for advanced aerospace systems. Requires 8+ years of mechanical testing or product development experience, strong hydraulic and sensor expertise, Python proficiency, and advanced Siemens NX CAD skills.

## Job Description

## Responsibilities
- Develop and execute test plans validating mechanical performance, structural integrity, and environmental durability.
- Design, build, and operate test fixtures and systems involving hydraulic actuation, mechanical linkages, and sensor instrumentation.
- Integrate and calibrate sensors such as load cells, pressure transducers, strain gauges, and accelerometers.
- Create and maintain Python scripts for test automation, signal processing, and result visualization.
- Analyze test data, troubleshoot system behavior, and generate technical reports with design feedback.
- Collaborate with mechanical design, systems, and electrical engineering teams to define test requirements and execute test campaigns.
- Lead CAD design of custom test equipment, prototypes, fixtures, and components with attention to manufacturability and safety.
- Perform finite element analysis to simulate mechanical performance, validate design assumptions, and correlate analytical results with test data.
- Design, fabricate, and test metallic and composite mechanical components, considering anisotropy, delamination risk, and layup configuration.
- Support laboratory safety protocols, equipment maintenance, and continuous improvement of test capabilities.

## Requirements
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
- **8+ years of experience** in mechanical testing or product development environments.
- Strong knowledge of hydraulic systems and their control and measurement.
- Experience selecting, integrating, and calibrating sensors in test environments.
- Proficiency in Python for scripting, test automation, and data analysis.
- Advanced Siemens NX CAD skills, including design of test hardware and prototypes.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Ability to obtain an S//SAR-level security clearance desired.

## Nice-to-Haves
- Experience with the MTS or Moog Aerospace software suite.
- Subject-matter expertise in aerospace structures and dynamics test environments.

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