Staff Technician, Mechanical Test

About the role

Shield AI, a defense-tech company developing aircraft and simulation technologies, is looking for a Staff Technician, Mechanical Test to support the fabrication, instrumentation and testing of its X-BAT aircraft. The role suits a hands-on builder with strong experience on test stands, precision instrumentation and machine shop work. It is based in Seattle, WA once the production facility opens in spring 2027; until then, periodic travel to Dallas, TX is required (covered by the employer).

Key responsibilities

• Construct and assemble large structures and test articles from engineering drawings and CAD models.
• Support design, prototyping and fabrication of new products, R&D and flight-ready hardware.
• Maintain records of test equipment configurations and device designations.
• Work with aerospace-grade materials and repair structures with standard techniques and tools.
• Fabricate fixtures, machine brackets and make rapid modifications to prototypes.
• Install strain gauges, thermocouples and sensors per schematics, route cabling, integrate data acquisition systems and verify sensor calibration.
• Run mechanical tests with static and dynamic loads and document results and anomalies.
• Keep shop, lab and composite areas clean, organized and safe, and improve instrumentation and testing standards.
• Source and manage inventory for parts and equipment used in repairs.

Required profile

• 10+ years of experience in fabrication or aerospace-grade instrumentation.
• Strong background in strain gauge installation and sensor wiring.
• Experience in machine shop operations, including manual and/or CNC tools.
• Able to read engineering drawings, schematics and detailed work instructions.
• Comfortable in noisy, dusty and chemically exposed shop and lab environments, lifting up to 50 lbs and working physically for long periods.

Preferred qualifications

• Familiarity with mechanical testing systems such as load frames and DAQ systems.
• Experience in aerospace, automotive, defense or high-performance prototyping.
• Knowledge of adhesives, fasteners and bonding for composite-to-metal interfaces.
• Hands-on MIL-STD testing experience (vibration, shock, thermal).