Staff Technical Program Manager – Propulsion

About the role

Shield AI is looking for an experienced Propulsion Technical Program Manager to lead execution across the X‑BAT propulsion team. The role works closely with propulsion engineers, technicians, and suppliers to ensure development activities align with vehicle‑level milestones and flight‑readiness goals.

Key responsibilities

• Partner with propulsion engineers and Responsible Engineers to plan and execute development activities across engine hardware, subsystems, and testing.
• Drive propulsion program schedules and align them with vehicle‑level milestones and flight‑readiness objectives.
• Coordinate work across propulsion, design, fluids, controls, airframe, manufacturing, supply chain, and flight test teams.
• Track technical progress, identify risks, and implement mitigation plans to maintain schedule and performance targets.
• Manage propulsion‑related suppliers and external partners, overseeing schedule tracking, technical coordination, and delivery performance.
• Translate complex technical work into clear program status, risks, and actions for leadership and stakeholders.
• Facilitate technical reviews, program checkpoints, and cross‑team integration discussions.
• Support propulsion test campaigns by coordinating resources, schedules, and deliverables.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Systems Engineering, or a related field.
• 7+ years of experience in technical program management or engineering leadership within aerospace or complex hardware development.
• Proven ability to coordinate cross‑functional engineering teams and manage schedules, technical risks, and program execution.
• Experience working with suppliers and external development partners.
• U.S. citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements; ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance is desired.

Required skills

• JIRA
• Smartsheet