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Senior Staff Engineer, Mechanical Test (R4413)

Shield AI· X-BAT Division – X-BAT Engineering - Mechanical
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Seattle, WA$200k - $300kFull Time EmployeePosted 7mo ago

About the role

Senior-level role focused on development, testing, and validation of advanced mechanical systems for Shield AI aircraft, with emphasis on hydraulic systems, sensors, Python-based test automation, and Siemens NX CAD for test hardware.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute test plans to validate mechanical performance, structural integrity, and environmental durability from start to finish.
  • Design, build, and operate test fixtures and systems involving hydraulic actuation, mechanical linkages, and sensor instrumentation.
  • Integrate and calibrate a range of sensors (e.g., load cells, pressure transducers, strain gauges, accelerometers) into test setups for accurate data collection.
  • Create and maintain python scripts to provide automation, signal processing, and result visualization.
  • Analyze test data, troubleshoot system behaviors, and generate detailed technical reports with design feedback.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including mechanical design, systems, and electrical engineering to define test requirements, run test campaigns and deliver high quality results.
  • Lead CAD design of custom test equipment, prototypes, fixtures, and components, ensuring manufacturability and safety.
  • Perform Finite Element Analysis to simulate mechanical performance, validate design assumptions, and correlate analytical results with test data.
  • Work with metallic/composite materials in the design, fabrication, and testing of mechanical components, with consideration for their unique properties such as anisotropy, delamination risk, and layup configuration.
  • Support lab safety protocols, equipment maintenance, and continuous improvement of test capabilities.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
  • 12+ years of experience in mechanical testing or product development environments.
  • Strong working knowledge of hydraulic systems and their control/measurement.
  • Experience with sensor selection, integration, and calibration in test environments.
  • Proficiency in Python for scripting, test automation, and data analysis.
  • Advanced CAD skills in Siemens NX with experience designing test hardware and prototypes.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently and in team settings.
  • Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.

Skills

Required:Hydraulic systems proficiencySensor integration and calibrationPython for scripting and data analysisSiemens NX CAD

Benefits

  • Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
  • Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location.
  • All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check.
  • Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits.
Last updated Oct 23, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.

About Shield AI

Autonomy for the world.

Our mission is to protect service members and civilians with intelligent systems.

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