Aircraft Structures Engineer

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company focused on protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems.
Texas, USA
$114,989 - $191,863
Embedded
Senior Software Engineer
In-Person
5+ years of experience
AI · Robotics · Space

Description For Aircraft Structures Engineer

Shield AI, a pioneering defense technology company founded in 2015, is seeking an experienced Aircraft Structures Engineer to join their innovative team. This role presents an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of autonomous aircraft technology, focusing on UAV development and optimization.

The position combines cutting-edge structural design with advanced engineering principles, requiring expertise in finite element analysis (FEA), composite materials, and mechanical testing. You'll be working at the intersection of aerospace innovation and autonomous systems, contributing to projects that directly impact service members and civilians' safety.

As an Aircraft Structures Engineer, you'll lead the development of next-generation UAV platforms, working alongside top-tier Mechanical, Systems, Propulsion, and Aerospace Engineers. Your responsibilities will span from conceptual design to practical implementation, including sophisticated analysis of structural performance, optimization of airframe components, and validation through comprehensive testing protocols.

The ideal candidate brings 5-10 years of hands-on experience in aircraft design and structural analysis, with a strong foundation in mechanical or aerospace engineering. You'll need to demonstrate proficiency in industry-standard FEA tools and have a deep understanding of composite materials and lightweight aerospace structures.

Shield AI offers a competitive compensation package, including equity participation and comprehensive benefits. With offices in San Diego, Dallas, Washington, D.C., and international locations, you'll be joining a global team dedicated to advancing autonomous aviation technology. This role provides an unique opportunity to work on meaningful projects that push the boundaries of what's possible in autonomous aircraft systems while contributing to national security and civilian protection.

Last updated a month ago

Responsibilities For Aircraft Structures Engineer

  • Lead conceptualization and structural development of clean-sheet aircraft designs
  • Integrate aerodynamics, propulsion, and structural requirements
  • Develop and refine finite element models (FEM)
  • Execute static, modal, fatigue, and vibration analyses
  • Perform critical hand calculations to validate FEA results
  • Design to optimize airframe structures
  • Drive development of innovative test plans for structural validation
  • Analyze flight telemetry and structural test data
  • Define load cases, material properties, and design margins
  • Deliver structural analysis reports and technical recommendations
  • Collaborate across disciplines to align structural integrity
  • Advance UAV design by improving structural analysis methodologies

Requirements For Aircraft Structures Engineer

Python
  • B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
  • 5-10 years of hands-on experience in aircraft design, structural analysis, finite element modeling, or aircraft loads analysis
  • Proficiency in industry-leading FEA tools such as ANSYS, NASTRAN, HyperWorks, or similar
  • Exceptional ability to perform hand calculations for structural strength, stability, and fatigue analysis
  • Deep understanding of composite materials and lightweight aerospace structures
  • Experience with advanced mechanical testing methods
  • Strong command of data analysis tools such as Excel, MATLAB, Python
  • Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail

Benefits For Aircraft Structures Engineer

Equity
Visa Sponsorship
Relocation Benefits
  • Salary + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
  • International premium (for international positions)
  • Hardship differential
  • Cost of living differential
  • Living quarters allowance
  • Foreign service transfer allowance
  • Visa assistance
  • Relocation assistance

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