Staff Technician, Mechanical Test

Shield AI•Seattle, WA

5d•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 to prototype development, research and development, and flight-ready hardware, from building test articles through testing and validation of final assemblies. The technician will work with engineering drawings and CAD models, aerospace-grade materials, test stands, precision instrumentation, machine-shop equipment, and prototype hardware. 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+ 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 up to 50 lbs. and perform physical work for extended periods.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with mechanical testing systems such as load frames and DAQ 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 in alignment with engineering drawings and CAD models.
Support the design, prototyping, and fabrication of new products, R&D 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 report anomalies or irregularities promptly.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workspace across 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.