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
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Job Description:
We are seeking a Manager of Propulsion to lead the development and execution of engine and thrust vector control (TVC) systems for the X-BAT vehicle, powered by a fighter-class, afterburning jet engine. This role leads a team of propulsion engineers and technicians responsible for developing, integrating, testing, and operating flight-critical propulsion hardware from concept through flight and operational deployment.
You will work closely with propulsion Responsible Engineers (REs), controls, airframe, flight test, manufacturing, and leadership teams to ensure engine and TVC development aligns with vehicle-level objectives, mission requirements, and program milestones. This role requires strong technical leadership, hands-on engagement, and the ability to drive execution in a fast-paced aerospace development environment.
What you'll do:
Lead propulsion engineering efforts related to engine and TVC development, integration, testing, and flight operations.
Support and mentor propulsion REs responsible for engine modules, nozzles, actuators, vectoring hardware, and associated propulsion systems.
Drive technical execution, staffing, prioritization, and schedule alignment across propulsion activities.
Guide teams through propulsion trade studies involving thermodynamics, transient behavior, thermal management, structural integration, and operability limits.
Coordinate closely with controls, airframe, and mission teams to ensure propulsion integration supports aircraft maneuverability, survivability, and CONOPS requirements.
Support root cause investigations, performance anomalies, design reviews, and flight readiness activities.
Drive technical rigor, accountability, and measurable execution across the propulsion organization.
Collaborate with suppliers and external partners supporting propulsion hardware and testing.
Required qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related engineering discipline.
7-10+ years of experience in propulsion system development, integration, test, or flight operations.
Experience leading engineering teams or large cross-functional technical efforts.
Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and aerospace propulsion fundamentals.
Deep understanding of gas turbine engine operation, transient response, thrust production, operability limits, and thermal constraints.
Hands-on experience supporting propulsion hardware development and test programs.
Strong communication and organizational skills.
U.S. Citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements.
Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.
Preferred qualifications:
Experience with fighter-class or low-bypass turbofan propulsion systems.
Familiarity with engine controls, TVC systems, transient response, and actuator integration.
Experience with GFSSP, REFPROP, ANSYS, FEA, or propulsion performance analysis tools.
Background in rocket propulsion or thrust vector control systems.
Experience operating in hardware-centric, test-driven aerospace environments.
M.S. or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering or related discipline
