Engineer II, Mechanical Designer / Drafter (R4920)

Shield AI•Dallas, TX

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Shield AI is seeking a passionate and innovative product design engineer to join their team. As a Mechanical Designer/Drafter Engineer, you will contribute to the design and development of Shield AI's autonomous UAV products. You will help architect new products, support the detailed design of complex structural systems for the launch and recovery vehicle, and utilize best-in-class design and analysis tools. You will collaborate closely with internal and/or external partners to prototype, test, and release products to production. You will also ensure product features achieve performance, schedule, and reliability goals. This role involves working across disciplines to ensure structural integrity, manufacturability, and mission-readiness in advanced autonomous aircraft platforms. The ideal candidate thrives in fast-paced, high-ownership environments and is passionate about building systems that matter.

Requirements

B.S. in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering
2+ years in mechanical or mechanism design for ground vehicles
Strong CAD skills (NX preferred)
Structural analysis utilizing hand calculations and finite element methods
Understanding of 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

Nice To Haves

Experience with UAVs, aircraft, or robotic systems
Kinematic analysis and optimization
Familiarity with electro-mechanical actuators
FEA analysis: Modal, non-linear and linear, buckling, fatigue
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

Responsibilities

Support the design of complex structures for the autonomous aircraft launch and recovery system
Support 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