Senior Propulsion Design Engineer - Ranger UAV

About the role

Shield AI is seeking a Senior Propulsion Design Engineer to support the development and delivery of propulsion hardware for the Ranger platform, a next-generation UAV. The role covers the full lifecycle of propulsion components, from early layout and design through production release, test support and flight operations, and works closely with propulsion REs, technicians, machinists, production, controls, airframe and flight test teams.

Key responsibilities

• Own the design and release of propulsion hardware for the engine, fuel, oil and bleed air systems.
• Develop and maintain CAD models, drawings and assemblies with proper GD&T.
• Turn propulsion architecture and requirements into manufacturable, testable and flight-ready hardware.
• Work with the machine shop, production and technicians on builds, non-conformances and iterative improvements.
• Support test campaigns with hardware design support, instrumentation accommodation and rapid iteration.
• Use engineering judgment and analysis (hand calcs, ANSYS, FEA, GFSSP, REFPROP) for sizing, load cases and design validation.
• Support configuration management, BOM control and change processes with Teamcenter or equivalent PLM.
• Take part in design reviews, interface control efforts and root cause investigations.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• 5+ years of experience in aerospace hardware design, preferably on propulsion systems.
• Experience working with production, technicians and machine shops to resolve build issues.
• Understanding of design for manufacturing, machining limitations, tolerance stack-ups and assembly workflows.
• US citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements.
• Preferred: M.S. in Aerospace Engineering or a related discipline.

Required skills

• CAD modeling and drawing creation (NX preferred) with GD&T.
• Preferred: GFSSP, REFPROP, ANSYS or FEA, Python scripting, interface control, fastener selection for high-vibration environments and high-temperature materials.