Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube.
Job Description:
We are currently seeking a highly skilled Sr. Staff Technician to support the development and build of V-BAT unmanned aircraft system across mechanical, electrical, and propulsion systems. This is a hands-on, cross-disciplinary role for an experienced technician who thrives in a fast-paced engineering environment and partners closely with engineers to bring new designs to life. The ideal candidate will interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and evolving design requirements to execute complex assemblies, troubleshoot system-level issues, and contribute to rapid prototyping efforts. This role requires strong technical judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to deliver high-quality hardware while influencing build processes, design improvements, and overall system integration.
What you'll do:
Lead hands-on build, integration, and rework of V-BAT prototype mechanical, electrical, and propulsion systems.
Serve as the primary technician partner to engineering during development cycles, translating engineering intent into high-quality hardware.
Execute complex mechanical and electrical assemblies, including harnessing, avionics integration, propulsion installs, and structural builds.
Diagnose and troubleshoot system-level issues across vehicle subsystems, driving root cause identification and corrective actions.
Support rapid prototyping efforts, including custom fabrication, modifications, and iterative design feedback.
Collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, and propulsion engineers to improve design for manufacturability, reliability, and serviceability.
Develop and refine build processes, work instructions, and best practices for prototype and low-rate builds.
Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior technicians, setting standards for quality, efficiency, and workmanship.
Maintain strict adherence to safety, quality, and configuration control processes in a fast-paced R&D environment.
Required qualifications:
12+ years of hands-on experience in aerospace, robotics, defense, or a related field.
Deep experience with both mechanical and electrical assembly in complex systems (air vehicles, UAVs, or similar highly integrated platforms preferred).
Strong troubleshooting skills across multiple domains (mechanical, electrical, propulsion).
Ability to work from engineering drawings, schematics, and CAD models with minimal supervision.
Experience with avionics integration, wiring/harnessing, connectors, and test equipment.
Proficiency with standard shop tools, fabrication techniques, and prototype build environments.
Proven ability to operate independently while also collaborating effectively with engineering teams.
Preferred qualifications:
Experience with UAS/UAV platforms, especially Group 2–3 systems.
Familiarity with propulsion systems (including electric and/or hybrid).
Background in rapid prototyping or R&D environments versus production-only roles.
Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
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. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
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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.