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Manager, Propulsion (Test) (R5089)

Dallas, Texas
Full Time On-site

Summary

Job Description

We are seeking a Manager of Propulsion to lead propulsion test development and execution for the X-BAT vehicle, powered by a fighter-class, afterburning jet engine. This role oversees propulsion test infrastructure, engine testing, subsystem validation, and flight test support activities required to mature propulsion hardware from development through operational readiness.

You will lead a team of propulsion test engineers and technicians responsible for designing, building, and operating propulsion test stands and facilities supporting engine, fuel, oil, bleed air, and TVC systems. This role requires strong technical leadership, operational awareness, hands-on involvement in testing activities, and the ability to rapidly solve complex technical problems in demanding test environments.

What you'll do:

  • Lead propulsion test planning and execution from component-level development through flight readiness.
  • Oversee the design, analysis, and construction of propulsion test stands, fixtures, instrumentation systems, and safety systems.
  • Support propulsion REs in defining test objectives, instrumentation strategies, and data analysis methodologies.
  • Guide teams through propulsion thermodynamic analysis, transient characterization, thermal performance evaluation, and operability validation.
  • Drive root cause investigations and rapid troubleshooting efforts during testing activities.
  • Coordinate test schedules, facility readiness, staffing, and supplier support.
  • Ensure propulsion testing aligns with vehicle-level milestones and program priorities.
  • Lead development of test processes, standards, and operational best practices.

Required qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related engineering discipline.
  • 7-10+ years of experience in propulsion testing or aerospace development programs.
  • Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and aerospace propulsion fundamentals.
  • Strong understanding of gas turbine engine testing, instrumentation, transient response, and propulsion system integration.
  • Hands-on experience designing or operating propulsion test stands and facilities.
  • Experience leading technical teams and coordinating complex test operations.
  • U.S. Citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements.
  • Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.

Preferred qualifications:

  • Experience testing fighter-class or low-bypass turbofan propulsion systems.
  • Familiarity with Python, REFPROP, GFSSP, ANSYS, FEA, or propulsion performance analysis tools.
  • Experience with controls integration, TVC testing, transient characterization, or operability mapping.
  • Background in rocket propulsion testing or hot-fire development environments.
  • Experience operating in hardware-centric, test-driven aerospace organizations.
  • 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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