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Manager, Propulsion (Engine) (R5086)

Dallas, Texas
Full Time On-site

Summary

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
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. 

About Shield AI

Shield AI

Shield AI is a defense technology company building autonomous AI systems for aircraft, drones, and intelligent mission software used in complex military environments. Founded in 2015, the company is best known for developing Hivemind, an AI pilot system that enables aircraft and drones to operate autonomously in contested and GPS-denied environments, supporting U.S. and allied defense missions.

For job seekers, Shield AI offers opportunities across advanced fields including artificial intelligence, robotics, software engineering, autonomy systems, aerospace engineering, embedded systems, and mission operations. The company is especially attractive to engineers, AI researchers, and defense professionals who want to work on real-world autonomous systems that are actively being deployed in operational military scenarios.

Unlike traditional defense contractors, Shield AI operates with a startup-style engineering culture focused on rapid experimentation, real-world testing, and fast deployment of autonomous capabilities. Employees work on tightly integrated AI and robotics systems that combine perception, decision-making, and control, enabling platforms to operate without direct human input in highly complex environments.

As modern warfare increasingly shifts toward autonomous systems, distributed sensing, and AI-enabled decision-making, Shield AI continues to grow as one of the most prominent companies in next-generation defense technology. For professionals seeking to build cutting-edge autonomy systems with direct mission impact, Shield AI stands out as a leading employer in the defense innovation ecosystem.

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