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Senior Component Engineer

Dallas, Texas
Full Time On-site

Summary

Job Description

Shield AI is redefining autonomous aviation with cutting-edge AI and GPS/RF-denied navigation technologies. Now, we’re building our next-generation aircraft, XBAT, like no other—one that will push the boundaries of innovation and performance.

As a Component Engineer at Shield AI, you’ll own the selection, qualification, and lifecycle management of electronic components across our products. You will drive component decisions that reduce risk, control cost and ensure long-term product reliability and survivability. This role sits at the intersection of engineering, supply chain and reliability.

What you'll do:

  • Own component data and governance in PLM (part creation, attributes, AML/AVL, lifecycle states)
  • Review and approve new component requests
  • Define baseline quality requirements for COTS components and enforce them through design BOM reviews
  • Monitor and assess PCNs and lifecycle changes (NRND/EOL), and drive mitigation actions through Engineering Change Orders (ECOs)
  • Partner with Electrical Engineering to select components that meet performance, cost, and availability targets
  • Build and maintain preferred parts lists and approved vendor lists (AVL)
  • Support supply chain with alternate part evaluations and second-sourcing strategies
  • Engage directly with suppliers to resolve technical questions

Required qualifications:

  • B.S. in an engineering field.
  • 5+ years of relevant experience
  • Understanding of Product Lifecycle Management (Arena, Teamcenter), ECAD tools (Altium) and structured component libraries
  • Strong judgment in balancing performance, cost and supply chain risk
  • Demonstrated track record of ownership, high standards, and effective collaboration
  • Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.

Preferred qualifications:

  • Degree in electrical engineering or computer science
  • Familiar with industry-standard component qualification process (AEC-Q, NASA, JEDEC, MIL, etc)
  • Knowledge of electrical component manufacturing processes and common failure modes.
  • Proficiency in Python/SQL
  • Experience writing specifications/standards for internal company distribution
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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