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Senior Staff Engineer, Structures - Launch Recovery Vehicle (R4765)

Shield AI· X-BAT Division – X-BAT Engineering - LRV
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Seattle, WA$200k - $300kfull-timePosted 6mo ago

About the role

Senior Staff Engineer responsible for leading the design, development, and testing of a novel launch and recovery system for Shield AI’s next-generation UAS, enabling robust, field-deployable support structures for military environments.

Responsibilities

  • Design and develop mechanical systems for a Launch and Recovery System, including power units, transport structures, launch & recovery functions, and maintenance tools.
  • Create detailed CAD models, drawings, and specifications for manufacturing and assembly.
  • Conduct structural, thermal, and fatigue analysis to ensure durability and reliability of launcher systems in field environments.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate launcher with aircraft systems and mission operations.
  • Perform trade studies and system optimization to enhance portability, ruggedness, and maintainability of support systems.
  • Oversee prototyping, testing, and validation of launcher designs to meet military and aviation standards.
  • Develop technical documentation, test procedures, and support manuals for field operations.
  • Work with suppliers and manufacturing partners to ensure cost-effective production and sustainment of launcher system.
  • Support flight test campaigns by providing engineering support for ground and test operations.

Qualifications

  • 10+ years of experience in mechanical design for aerospace, ground support equipment, or heavy industrial systems.
  • Expertise in CAD software (SolidWorks, CATIA, NX, or similar) for 3D modeling, drawing creation, and system layout.
  • Strong background in structural analysis, material selection, and manufacturing processes for ruggedized systems.
  • Experience designing deployable, transportable, and field-ready aerospace support equipment.
  • Knowledge of MIL-STD design requirements for aerospace systems.
  • Experience with finite element analysis (FEA), thermal analysis, and fatigue/lifecycle testing.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, agile development environment with evolving priorities.
  • Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.

Skills

Required:Mechanical design for aerospaceCAD softwareStructural analysisMIL-STD design knowledgeFEA / thermal / fatigue testingSystems integrationPrototyping & testing leadership

Benefits

  • Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
  • Temporary employee offer package: Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
  • Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including skill set, experience, licenses/certifications, and location; offers contingent on cleared background and possible references.
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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