Staff Technician, Mechanical Test

Shield AI • Seattle, WA

7d • $42 - $64 • Onsite

About The Position

Shield AI is seeking a hands-on Staff Technician, Mechanical Test to support fabrication, instrumentation, and testing of X-BAT. The role contributes across the product lifecycle, from early prototype development through testing and validation of final assemblies. The position will be based in Seattle, Washington, once the production facility is operational in Spring 2027. Until then, periodic travel to Dallas, Texas, will be required and covered by Shield AI.

Requirements

• 10 or more years of experience in fabrication or aerospace-grade instrumentation.
• Strong background in strain gauge installation and sensor wiring.
• Hands-on experience in machine shop operations, including manual and/or CNC tools.
• Ability to read engineering drawings, schematics, and detailed work instructions.
• Comfort working in shop and lab environments with exposure to noise, dust, and chemicals.
• Ability to lift and move parts and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds and perform physical work for extended periods.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with mechanical testing systems such as load frames and data acquisition systems.
• Experience in aerospace, automotive, defense, or high-performance prototyping environments.
• Knowledge of adhesives, fasteners, and bonding processes for composite-to-metal interfaces.
• Ability to work independently and adapt quickly to changing technical needs.
• Hands-on experience performing MIL-STD testing, including vibration, shock, and thermal testing.

Responsibilities

• Construct and assemble large-scale structures and test articles according to engineering drawings and CAD models.
• Support design, prototyping, and fabrication for new products, research and development initiatives, and flight-ready hardware.
• Maintain accurate records of test equipment configurations and device designations across projects.
• Work with aerospace-grade materials and perform structural repairs using industry-standard techniques and tools.
• Fabricate fixtures, machine brackets, and make rapid modifications to prototype hardware as needed.
• Install strain gauges, thermocouples, and other sensors according to instrumentation schematics.
• Route cabling, integrate data acquisition systems, and verify sensor calibration and operational status.
• Conduct mechanical testing by applying static and dynamic loads according to engineering procedures.
• Document test outcomes and promptly report anomalies or irregularities.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workspace in shop, lab, and composite work areas.
• Contribute to improvements in instrumentation standards, testing procedures, and fabrication workflows.
• Source and manage inventory for parts and equipment needed for component repair or replacement.

Benefits

• Full-time regular employee offer package includes pay within the listed range, bonus, benefits, and equity.
• Temporary employee offer package includes pay within the listed range and a temporary benefits package applicable after 60 days of employment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed