Principal Mechanism Design Engineer

8 Minutes ago • 10 Years + • Software Development & Engineering • $193,578 PA - $290,366 PA

Job Summary

Job Description

Shield AI is seeking a Principal Mechanisms Design Engineer with deep expertise in mechanism design to support the development of our next-generation autonomous UAV platform. In this high-ownership role, you will lead the architecture, design, and development of precision mechanical systems and actuation mechanisms that are critical to mission success. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to create rugged, lightweight, and manufacturable mechanisms-ranging from landing gear to deployable payload systems-while delivering high performance in dynamic and harsh environments. This is an opportunity to design at the edge of innovation and autonomy, with real-world impact.
Must have:
  • Design complex electro-mechanical mechanisms for autonomous aircraft.
  • Own full design process: concept, CAD, tolerance analysis, material selection, drawing release.
  • Perform structural and kinematic calculations and preliminary FEA.
  • Prototype, test, and iterate mechanism designs for functionality and reliability.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams (electrical, avionics, flight controls, propulsion).
  • Mentor junior engineers and promote engineering excellence.
  • Support pre-production builds, prototype integration, and ground/flight testing.
  • B.S. in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering.
  • 10+ years in mechanical or mechanism design.
  • Strong CAD skills (NX preferred).
  • Expertise in kinematic analysis and optimization.
  • Proficiency in structural analysis (hand calculations, finite element methods).
  • Experience with FEA analysis: Modal, non-linear, linear, buckling, fatigue.
  • Knowledge of GD&T and tolerance stack-ups for mechanical systems.
  • Ability to select materials including alloys, heat treatments, allowables, and finishes.
  • Ability to work independently and lead in fast-paced, cross-functional teams.
Good to have:
  • Experience with UAVs, aircraft, or robotic systems
  • Familiarity with electro-mechanical actuators
  • Proficiency in FMEA, DOE, and root cause analysis
  • Hands-on machine shop or mechanic experience (professional or hobby)
  • RTCA DO-160, structural, or actuated mechanism testing experience
  • Ability to thrive in startup, R&D, or defense innovation environments
Perks:
  • Bonus
  • Benefits
  • Equity

Job Details

Shield AI is seeking a Principal Mechanisms Design Engineer with deep expertise in mechanism design to support the development of our next-generation autonomous UAV platform. In this high-ownership role, you will lead the architecture, design, and development of precision mechanical systems and actuation mechanisms that are critical to mission success.

You will work closely with cross-functional teams to create rugged, lightweight, and manufacturable mechanisms-ranging from landing gear to deployable payload systems-while delivering high performance in dynamic and harsh environments. This is an opportunity to design at the edge of innovation and autonomy, with real-world impact.

What you'll do:

  • Design complex electro-mechanical mechanisms for autonomous aircraft
  • Own the full design process: concept, CAD, tolerance analysis, material selection, and drawing release
  • Perform structural and kinematic calculations and preliminary FEA
  • Prototype, test, and iterate mechanism designs for functionality and reliability
  • Collaborate with electrical, avionics, flight controls, and propulsion teams
  • Mentor junior engineers and promote engineering excellence
  • Support pre-production builds, prototype integration, and ground/flight testing

Required qualifications:

  • B.S. in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering
  • 10+ years in mechanical or mechanism design
  • Strong CAD skills (NX preferred)
  • Kinematic analysis and optimization
  • Structural analysis utilizing hand calculations and finite element methods
  • FEA analysis: Modal, non-linear and linear, buckling, fatigue
  • GD&T and tolerance stack-ups for mechanical systems
  • Materials selection inclusive of alloys, heat treatments, allowables, and finishes
  • Ability to work independently and lead in fast-paced, cross-functional teams
  • A demonstrated record of working hard, being trustworthy, holding yourself to high standards, and being kind to others

Preferred qualifications:

  • Experience with UAVs, aircraft, or robotic systems
  • Familiarity with electro-mechanical actuators
  • Proficiency in FMEA, DOE, and root cause analysis
  • Hands-on machine shop or mechanic experience (professional or hobby)
  • RTCA DO-160, structural, or actuated mechanism testing experience
  • Ability to thrive in startup, R&D, or defense innovation environments

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.

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.

Similar Jobs

Looks like we're out of matches

Set up an alert and we'll send you similar jobs the moment they appear!

Similar Skill Jobs

Looks like we're out of matches

Set up an alert and we'll send you similar jobs the moment they appear!

Jobs in San Diego, California, United States

Looks like we're out of matches

Set up an alert and we'll send you similar jobs the moment they appear!

Software Development & Engineering Jobs

Looks like we're out of matches

Set up an alert and we'll send you similar jobs the moment they appear!

About The Company

Dallas, Texas, United States (On-Site)

Dallas, Texas, United States (On-Site)

Dallas, Texas, United States (On-Site)

Dallas, Texas, United States (On-Site)

Washington, District Of Columbia, United States (On-Site)

San Diego, California, United States (On-Site)

San Diego, California, United States (On-Site)

San Diego, California, United States (Remote)

Dayton, Ohio, United States (Hybrid)

Melbourne, Victoria, Australia (On-Site)

View All Jobs

Get notified when new jobs are added by Shield AI

Level Up Your Career in Game Development!

Transform Your Passion into Profession with Our Comprehensive Courses for Aspiring Game Developers.

Job Common Plug