Principal Aircraft Structures Design Engineer/Aerostructures Lead (R2977)

About Shield AI     

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company whose mission is to protect service members and civilians with intelligent systems. In pursuit of this mission, Shield AI is building the world’s best AI pilot. Its AI pilot, Hivemind, has flown jets (F-16; MQM-178 Firejet), a vertical takeoff and landing drone (MQ-35 V-BAT), and three quadcopters (Nova, Nova 2, iPRD). The company has offices in San Diego, Dallas, Washington DC and abroad. Shield AI’s products and people are currently in the field actively supporting operations with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. allies.

Job Description:

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Principal Aircraft Structures Design Engineer or Aerostructures Lead to lead the development of primary and secondary structural systems for next-generation autonomous aircraft. In this role, you will drive the design, analysis, testing, and integration of advanced aerostructures, ensuring they meet stringent performance, weight, and durability requirements while enabling the mission-critical capabilities of our platforms.

This leadership role demands extensive expertise in aircraft structural design, strong proficiency in composite and metallic materials, and a proven track record of delivering innovative aerostructures solutions within the aerospace industry.

This is an opportunity to play a key role in shaping the future of autonomous aviation, leveraging your expertise to design innovative aerostructures that will push the boundaries of what is possible in aerospace engineering.

• Lead the conceptual design of new airframes
• Lead the development of primary and secondary aircraft structural components, assemblies, and installations utilizing composite materials and metallics for new aircraft designs
• Coach and mentor structural design engineers and guide the team through project completion
• Ensure designs meet manufacturability, cost and supply chain requirements necessary to scale at volume
• Drive integration of development tools into Siemens digital development environment
• Provide on-site support for manufacturing, integration, and assembly of aircraft components.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in aircraft structural design, with at least 3 years in a leadership or senior technical role.
• Expertise in composite and metallic structural systems, including design for manufacturability and repairability.
• Strong knowledge of structural analysis principles, including kinematics, dynamics, and load path optimization.
• Proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., CATIA, NX, or SolidWorks) and analysis software (e.g., NASTRAN, ANSYS).
• Experience with certification processes and airworthiness standards (FAA Part 23/25 or equivalent).

• Experience with advanced manufacturing methods, such as additive manufacturing and automated fiber placement (AFP).
• Hands-on experience with structural testing, including static, fatigue, and environmental testing.
• Familiarity with aerodynamic performance and its interaction with structural design.

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Total package details for U.S. based positions:

- Regular employee positions: Salary within range listed above + Bonus + Benefits + Equity

- Temporary employee positions: Hourly within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days

of employment)

- Interns/Military Fellows/Part-time not eligible for bonus, benefits or equity

Total package details for International positions which are roles based outside of the United States (where applicable):

- International premium, hardship differential, cost of living differential, living quarters allowance, foreign service transfer

allowance, equity, international benefits, visa assistance, and relocation assistance.

Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check.

Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.