Senior Manager, Mechanical Engineering - Actuated Systems (R2977)

Introduction to Shield AI

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company whose mission is to protect service members and civilians with intelligent systems. In pursuit of this mission, Shield AI is building the world’s best AI pilot. Its AI pilot, Hivemind, has flown a fighter jet (F-16), a vertical takeoff and landing drone (V-BAT), and a quadcopter (Nova). The company has offices in San Diego, Dallas, Washington DC and abroad. Shield AI’s products and people are currently in the field actively supporting operations with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. allies. 

Job Description:

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Manager of Mechanical Engineering to lead our Actuated Systems Team in the development of critical actuated systems for next-generation autonomous aircraft. In this role, you will oversee the design, prototyping, testing, and integration of complex mechanical systems responsible for aircraft functionality and mission success. These systems include flight control surfaces, retractable landing gear systems, folding wing mechanisms, payload deployment mechanisms, and miscellaneous moving systems

This leadership role requires a strong background in mechanical engineering, expertise in precision actuation technologies, and experience delivering innovative solutions within the aviation or aerospace industry.

What you'll do:

Leadership & Strategy

-Lead a team of engineers to design, develop, and deliver actuated systems.

-Define technical roadmaps for actuated systems aligned with program goals and aircraft performance objectives.

-Provide mentorship, guidance, and career development for engineering team members.

Project Management & Execution

-Own the full product development lifecycle for all actuated systems, from concept to production.

-Collaborate cross-functionally with other engineering disciplines, including aerodynamics, flight controls, structures, and systems engineering.

-Ensure on-time delivery of designs that meet performance, weight, cost, and reliability targets.

Technical Excellence & Problem Solving

-Oversee the design and validation of mechanical actuators, linkages, servo systems, and other moving mechanisms.

-Ensure robust design practices, including tolerance analysis, fatigue studies, and failure mode analysis (FMEA).

-Review and approve detailed designs, engineering drawings, and test plans.

Testing & Certification

-Coordinate with test teams to validate system performance through simulation, bench testing, and flight testing.

-Ensure compliance with industry and regulatory standards (e.g., FAA, EASA).

-Drive continuous improvement efforts and lessons-learned into future designs.

Required qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in mechanical design and actuation systems, with at least 3 years in a management or team leadership role.
• Expertise in actuated systems, precision mechanisms, and electromechanical components.
• Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles, including kinematics, dynamics, and structural analysis.

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Total package details for U.S. based positions:

- Regular employee positions: Salary within range listed above + Bonus + Benefits + Equity

- Temporary employee positions: Hourly within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days

of employment)

- Interns/Military Fellows/Part-time not eligible for bonus, benefits or equity

Total package details for International based positions (where applicable):

- International premium, hardship differential, cost of living differential, living quarters allowance, foreign service transfer

allowance, equity, international benefits, visa assistance, and relocation assistance.

Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check.

Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.