Senior Engineer, Propulsion Design - Ranger (R6346)

Seattle · USD 140,000-210,000 / year · 5+ years experience · Onsite · Posted Oct 19, 2026

At a glance

Shield AI is seeking a Senior Engineer, Propulsion Design - Ranger to own the design and release of propulsion hardware supporting engine, fuel, oil, and bleed air systems.
The role involves developing CAD models, translating propulsion architecture into robust flight hardware, and collaborating directly with machine shops and production teams.

Own the design and release of propulsion hardware supporting the engine, fuel, oil, and bleed air systems.
Develop and maintain CAD models, drawings, and assemblies using Siemens NX with proper GD&T.
Translate propulsion architecture and requirements into hardware that is manufacturable, testable, and robust in flight.
Work directly with the machine shop, production, and technicians to support builds, resolve non-conformances, and drive iterative improvements.
Support test campaigns by providing hardware design support, instrumentation accommodation, and rapid iteration based on test findings.
Apply engineering judgment and analysis (e.g., hand calcs, ANSYS, FEA, GFSSP, REFPROP) to support sizing, load cases, and design validation.
Support configuration management, BOM control, and change processes using Teamcenter or equivalent PLM.
Participate in design reviews, interface control efforts, and root cause investigations related to propulsion hardware.

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
5+ years of experience in aerospace hardware design, preferably supporting propulsion systems.
Proficiency in CAD modeling and drawing creation (NX preferred) with sound application of GD&T.
Experience working directly with production, technicians, and machine shops to resolve real-world build issues.
Understanding of design for manufacturing, including machining limitations, tolerance stack-ups, and assembly workflows.
Some hands-on experience developing assembly guidance and supporting hardware builds and test integration.
US citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements.

Experience with jet propulsion systems on UAVs or tactical aircraft.
Familiarity with GFSSP, REFPROP, ANSYS, or FEA to support design trade studies and validation.
Ability to write Python scripts for design automation, analysis, or data processing.
Experience with interface control, fastener selection for high-vibration environments, and high-temperature materials.
Experience designing hardware in test-driven development environments with rapid iteration cycles.
M.S. in Aerospace Engineering or a related discipline.