Manager, Propulsion (Systems & Components)

About the role

Shield AI is seeking a Manager of Propulsion to lead propulsion subsystem and component development for the X-BAT vehicle, which uses a fighter-class, afterburning jet engine. The role covers flight-critical hardware such as valves, ducting, secondary structures, thermal systems, bleed air and oil systems, and integrated mechanical components operating in challenging thermal, vibration and mass-constrained environments. You will lead a multidisciplinary team of propulsion engineers and technicians through cradle-to-grave development, coordinating closely with propulsion, airframe, manufacturing, controls and flight test teams.

Key responsibilities

• Lead propulsion subsystem and component development from concept through flight operations.
• Mentor propulsion REs on hardware design, integration, testing and operational support.
• Design and develop components balancing mass, thermal capability, structural integrity, manufacturability and performance.
• Guide teams through high-temperature, high-pressure, high-vibration and transient environments.
• Drive architecture and integration decisions for valves, actuators, ducts, mounts and supporting hardware.
• Align design, manufacturing, supply chain, test and vehicle teams.
• Support technical reviews, integration planning and root cause investigations.
• Manage team execution, staffing priorities and technical rigor, and coordinate supplier activities and deliverables.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• 7-10+ years of experience in aerospace propulsion, fluid systems or hardware development.
• Experience leading engineering teams or complex subsystem development.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics and aerospace propulsion fundamentals.
• Understanding of component design, structural integration and thermal/mechanical constraints.
• Hands-on experience with development hardware and rapid iteration programs.
• U.S. citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR; S//SAR security clearance desired.

Preferred qualifications

• Experience designing propulsion subsystems such as valves, bleed air, oil systems, ducting, thermal systems or structural integration hardware.
• Familiarity with Siemens NX, Teamcenter, ANSYS, FEA, GFSSP or REFPROP.
• Background in rocket propulsion, turbomachinery or high-temperature aerospace hardware.
• Test-driven aerospace development experience.
• M.S. or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering or related discipline.