Feeny
Shield AI

Senior Staff Mechanical Engineer (R5990) at Shield AI (Seattle, WA)

Shield AI· Seattle, WA· $208k–$312k·

Role details

Salary
$208k–$312k
Work type
Onsite
Employment
Full-Time
Level
Staff

Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated engineer to support the design, development, integration, and fielding of a next-generation autonomous aircraft system. This position requires a balance of technical rigor, rapid decision-making, and hands-on engineering to efficiently transition concepts into operational capability. The ideal candidate is comfortable solving complex problems, taking ownership, working within an accelerated aircraft development environment, and is motivated by getting meaningful capability into the hands of operators quickly.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

  • Design complex electro-mechanical solutions for avionics packaging, electrical interconnects, thermal management, and aircraft integration
  • Perform structural, preliminary thermal, and modal analyses for avionics to ensure survivability in harsh environments
  • Ensure avionics meet performance, safety, environmental, and EMI/EMC compliance standards, including DO-160, DO-254, DO-178C, MIL-STD-810, and MIL-STD-461
  • Own your design work from concept to reviews through system validation, failure analysis, and flight test readiness.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • B.S. and/or MS in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering
  • 10+ years of experience in mechanical & electrical equipment design for aerospace, including harness integration and mechanical component design
  • Expertise in CAD software (NX, SolidWorks, CATIA, or similar) for 3D modeling, drawing creation, and system layout.
  • Familiarity with eCAD software (Altium, Cadence, Allegro), and harness design software (Capital, Zuken)
  • Experience working with electrical engineers to define PCB constraints, develop circuit cards, and care for all the mechanical interfaces
  • Familiarity with the PCB layout process and advanced manufacturing methods
  • 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

Why work at Shield AI

  • Mission‑driven work: Directly contribute to protecting service members and civilians with cutting‑edge AI and robotics.
  • Cross‑functional teams: Engineers collaborate across disciplines (AI, hardware, software, systems) on real‑world defense challenges.
  • Benefits: Excellent medical coverage, mental health EAP, paid parental leave, pet insurance, flexible work hours, gym discounts (SD) / on‑site gym (DC), free parking, competitive compensation, 401k with match, stock benefits.
  • Work policy: Flexible work hours; some offices (e.g., San Diego HQ, Arlington, DC) have on‑site facilities. Remote/hybrid options available depending on role.
  • Growth trajectory: Rapidly scaling (68% headcount growth) with hundreds of open roles across engineering, operations, and program management.

Application questions