Skip to content
Bots n' Beans
Sign in

Jobs

Shield AI

Robot type
Drone · Defense
Location
DallasTexasUSA
Job type
Hardware
Posted
Sep 21, 2026
Salary
$117,000–$176,000 a year
Full-time

Senior Engineer Propulsion - Engine Performance (R5907)

Job description

We are seeking a Propulsion Performance Engineer to own engine calibration and performance for the reciprocating engines that power the V-BAT platform. This role serves as the technical owner for engine calibration strategy — driving test plans, ECU tuning, and performance analysis from bench through flight test — and is accountable for the torque, power, speed, and fuel efficiency characteristics the engine delivers across its full operating envelope. You'll work hands-on with engine hardware, electronic fuel injection and engine control systems, and engine test stands, creating and executing engine testing strategies under the direction of senior staff propulsion engineers.

Job responsibilities

  • Support the engine calibration strategy by defining test plans, calibration methodology, and acceptance criteria across dynamometer, bench, and flight test campaigns.
  • Perform ECU configuration and tuning (including fuel mapping, ignition timing, and injector phasing) to optimize engine performance, fuel efficiency, and reliability across the operating envelope.
  • Analyze and deliver torque, power, and fuel consumption results, identifying calibration or hardware improvement opportunities and driving corrective action.
  • Lead troubleshooting and root-cause investigations for engine testing for the development team and production teams.
  • Reduce and interpret test and flight data to validate performance against requirements, closing gaps between design intent and measured behavior.
  • Represent engine calibration and performance in design reviews, technical readiness checkpoints, and cross-functional discussions with design, controls, and flight test teams.
  • Develop and maintain calibration documentation, procedures, and performance reporting to support program milestones.
  • Support refinement of performance models for the propulsion system and the vehicle through targeted test campaigns and data review.

Job requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • 5+ years of experience in a mechanical or aerospace engineering role, with a focus on engine performance or calibration.
  • Deep hands-on experience with reciprocating (piston) engines.
  • Demonstrated experience with electronically controlled fuel injectors and fuel injection systems.
  • Proven experience with ECU configuration and engine calibration, including ownership of calibration decisions.
  • Strong ability to analyze and interpret engine torque, power, and fuel consumption data to drive engine design, ECU calibration, and vehicle performance decisions.
  • U.S. Citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements.
  • Podium finish in FSAE competition, with at least one first place trophy in any dynamic event.
Apply on Shield AI websiteSave

Similar jobs