Senior Engineering Manager, Propulsion (R2742)

Job Description:

Are you a passionate, innovative, experienced Engineering Manager looking to help develop state-of-the-art AI and robotics products? Are you eager to make a positive difference in the world? Do you want to work alongside mission driven and values focused teammates? Shield AI is just the place for you!

Propulsion is one of the foundational technologies that determines the overall performance and reliability of the VBAT platform. We seek an engineering leader to guide the development and test of our VBAT propulsion technologies. As a Senior Manager, Propulsion, you'll be responsible for developing innovative mechanical design solutions of propulsion and fuel systems for Shield AI's autonomous UAV products, conducting feasibility studies, and coordinating validation testing on new and modified design using state-of-the-art CAD and analysis tools.

What you'll do:

• Provide leadership, direction, and guidance to a team of propulsion engineers and technicians. This involves setting strategic goals, prioritizing tasks, and ensuring the team's performance meets or exceeds expectations
• Lead the design, development, and optimization of propulsion systems, including engines, propulsion components, and related systems. This involves overseeing the conceptualization, modeling, simulation, and testing phases of development
• Maintain a deep understanding of propulsion engineering principles, including combustion dynamics, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and materials science. Apply this knowledge to solve complex technical challenges and drive innovation in propulsion technology
• Champion creating a robust and reliable propulsion system through extreme testing and life testing 
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including aerodynamics, structures, controls, and systems engineering, to integrate propulsion systems into overall vehicle designs. Coordinate with external partners, suppliers, and customers as needed
• Analyze ground and flight test data to identify areas of improvement to the propulsion system. 
• Oversee the development and release of detailed design documents including CAD models, 2D drawings, assembly instructions, acceptance test plans and other design artifacts
• Use data and analysis to set acceptance criteria for production and engineering propulsion hardware testing
• Encourage a culture of learning and development within the propulsion engineering team

Required qualifications:

• B.S. degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent with a minimum of 5 years of experience.
• Previous experience leading and developing a high performing team. 
• Demonstrated record of working hard, being a trustworthy teammate, holding yourself and others to high standards, and being kind to others
• Demonstrated track record of assuming ownership over development processes and features and delivering outstanding outcomes
• Proven track record of successfully shipping products, showcasing the ability to navigate through development cycles, overcome obstacles, and deliver high-quality solutions to meet project deadlines and exceed client expectations in a fast-paced environment

Preferred qualifications:

• Experience developing and delivering a reliable propulsion system 
• Advanced degree in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering (Propulsion/Combustion focus)
• Experience working on cutting-edge autonomous robotic systems
• Proven background in thriving within fast-paced environments, particularly within startup or R&D settings 
• Demonstrated adaptability, agility, and the ability to innovate under pressure to meet dynamic project demands and drive successful outcomes. 

#LI-JM2

#LE