Staff Engineer, Aircraft Configuration Design - Ranger (R6298)

Shield AI•Seattle, WA

3d•$170,000 - $260,000

About The Position

Shield AI is seeking an Aircraft Configuration Design Engineer to support development of next-generation autonomous unmanned air vehicles (UAVs). The role contributes to the design, optimization, and integration of aircraft configurations, coordinating aerodynamics, structures, propulsion, and mission systems to support performance, manufacturability, and operational effectiveness. It is suited to an engineer interested in aircraft design, multidisciplinary systems integration, and iterative prototyping in a defense technology environment.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering, or a related field.
Typically at least 7 years of related experience in aircraft design, configuration layout, or airframe integration.
Proficiency in CAD modeling, such as NX, SolidWorks, or similar, for airframe and structural design.
Basic understanding of aircraft aerodynamics, structures, and propulsion system integration.
Ability to perform basic FEA, CFD, or weight and balance assessments.
Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
Ability to work in cross-functional teams.
Excellent communication and technical documentation skills.
Active Secret clearance.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering, or a related field.
Experience with UAV design or aircraft conceptual design.
Familiarity with aircraft performance modeling, stability and control, and flight dynamics.
Hands-on experience with rapid prototyping, wind tunnel testing, or flight hardware development.
Knowledge of manufacturing techniques, composite materials, and aerospace structural design principles.
Experience working in a fast-paced, high-tech startup or defense environment.
Active TS clearance or ability to gain a TS clearance.

Responsibilities

Assist with conceptual and preliminary design of UAV platforms, including aerodynamic and structural configurations.
Support aircraft sizing, weight estimation, and trade studies evaluating airframe configurations.
Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, propulsion, and avionics teams on system integration.
Develop and refine 3D CAD models of aircraft structures, subsystems, and flight-critical components.
Perform basic aerodynamic and structural analysis using computational tools.
Participate in design reviews, system trade studies, and prototype development.
Support rapid prototyping and wind tunnel testing of scaled models.
Assist with requirements development, documentation, and verification planning for aircraft subsystems.
Ensure designs address manufacturing feasibility, mission requirements, and aerospace industry standards.
Work with manufacturing and production teams to transition designs from concept to prototype and full-scale production.