Staff Engineer – Survivability (R5885)

About the role

At Shield AI, we are building the most intelligent autonomous aircraft ever deployed. We seek a Lead Survivability Engineer to shape and optimize low observable performance of next‑generation autonomous aircraft operating in contested environments.

Key responsibilities

• Design and optimize low observable (LO) features across the airframe, including shaping, edge treatments, radar‑absorbing materials, and subsystem integration.
• Conduct electromagnetic signature modeling and simulation using tools such as HFSS, CST Studio Suite, Xpatch, and SENTRi.
• Collaborate with propulsion, avionics, structures, and AI teams to embed survivability into system architecture.
• Lead or support indoor and outdoor RCS range testing, validation campaigns, and supplier hardware evaluations.
• Translate mission threats into survivability features addressing RCS, thermal, visual, and acoustic observability.
• Partner with materials scientists to mature radar‑absorbing coatings and structural RAM for manufacturability and durability.
• Support internal and customer assessments, threat modeling reviews, and milestone decisions throughout the program lifecycle.

Required profile

• B.S. or M.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related discipline.
• Minimum 7 years experience in low observable or survivability engineering, preferably on tactical aircraft, UAVs, or stealth systems.
• U.S. citizenship with active Secret clearance (TS/SCI preferred) and ability to obtain S//SAR clearance.

Required skills

• Proficiency with EM simulation tools: HFSS, CST, Xpatch, SENTRi.
• Strong understanding of RCS shaping, edge treatments, cavity suppression, and materials integration.
• Practical experience with LO testing methods and RCS measurement equipment.
• Familiarity with radar‑absorbing materials (RAM), LO coatings, and structural LO trade studies.