Project Engineer - Subsystems

About Shield AI     

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company focused on protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its flagship autonomy software, Hivemind, powers aircraft, drones, and other platforms, enabling complex missions with high reliability in contested environments. With offices in San Diego, Dallas, Washington, D.C., and internationally, Shield AI’s products actively support U.S. and allied operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn,Twitter, and Instagram.   

Job Description:

Shield AI is seeking a Project Engineer - Subsystems to lead the design, development, and integration of mission-critical aircraft subsystems, including fuel, propulsion, landing gear, thermal management, and actuation systems. This role is instrumental in developing high-performance, lightweight, and highly reliable aircraft systems that support autonomous flight operations in contested environments.

As a key technical leader, you will be responsible for subsystem architecture, component selection, performance modeling, and integration testing, ensuring that all onboard systems operate seamlessly within the aircraft’s mission and operational constraints.

• Design and integrate aircraft subsystems, ensuring high reliability, redundancy, and optimal weight distribution.
• Oversee fuel system architecture, ensuring efficient fuel storage, transfer, and pressurization to optimize aircraft endurance.
• Lead the development of thermal management systems, ensuring effective cooling strategies for high-power avionics and propulsion components.
• Work closely with propulsion, avionics, and structures teams to integrate subsystems into a cohesive aircraft design.
• Conduct computational modeling and simulation of fluid dynamics, heat dissipation, and aerodynamic interactions between subsystems.
• Lead supplier qualification, hardware selection, and component validation testing.
• Support flight testing, system troubleshooting, and failure investigations to ensure subsystems perform optimally under real-world conditions.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years in aircraft subsystem engineering, design, and integration.
• Strong background in hydraulic, fuel, propulsion, and thermal management systems.
• Hands-on experience with full-aircraft development and flight testing.
• Proficiency in MATLAB, CFD tools, CAD (CATIA, NX, SolidWorks), and system modeling software.
• Strong troubleshooting and failure analysis skills for prototype and production aircraft.
• US Citizenship required due to security clearance requirements.

• Experience with DO-160, DO-178, DO-254, or MIL-STD certification.
• Knowledge of electrically actuated aircraft systems and next-gen propulsion technologies.
• Prior experience working on UAV, fighter jet, or high-performance aircraft programs.

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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.