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Shield AI

Robot type
Drone · Defense
Location
SeattleWashingtonUSA
Job type
Hardware
Posted
May 29, 2026
Salary
$190,000–$290,000 a year
Full-time

Manager, Propulsion (Systems & Components) (R5087)

Job description

We are seeking a Manager of Propulsion to lead propulsion subsystem and component development for the X-BAT vehicle, powered by a fighter-class, afterburning jet engine. This role oversees the development of flight-critical propulsion hardware including valves, ducting, secondary structures, thermal systems, bleed air systems, oil systems, and integrated mechanical components operating in challenging thermal, vibration, and mass-constrained environments.

You will lead a multidisciplinary team of propulsion engineers and technicians responsible for cradle-to-grave development of propulsion components and subsystem architectures.

Job responsibilities

  • Lead propulsion subsystem and component development activities from concept through flight operations.
  • Mentor propulsion REs responsible for propulsion hardware design, integration, testing, and operational support.
  • Lead the design and development of propulsion components requiring careful balance of mass, thermal capability, structural integrity, manufacturability, and performance.
  • Guide engineering teams through challenging thermal and flow environments involving high temperatures, pressure loads, vibration, and transient operation.
  • Drive component-level architecture and integration decisions for valves, actuators, ducts, mounts, and supporting propulsion hardware.
  • Drive cross-functional alignment between design, manufacturing, supply chain, test, and vehicle teams.
  • Support technical reviews, integration planning, and root cause investigations.
  • Drive team execution, staffing priorities, technical rigor, and measurable results.

Job requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related engineering discipline.
  • 7-10+ years of experience in aerospace propulsion, fluid systems, or hardware development environments.
  • Experience leading engineering teams or complex subsystem development efforts.
  • Strong understanding of thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and aerospace propulsion fundamentals.
  • Strong understanding of aerospace component design, structural integration, and thermal/mechanical design constraints.
  • Hands-on experience supporting development hardware and rapid iteration programs.
  • U.S. Citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements.
  • Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.

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