Perform and validate finite element and hand-calculation structural analyses for UAV airframes and components. Develop FEMs, run static/modal/fatigue/vibration studies, support test planning and correlation, define loads/materials/margins, and present structural recommendations while collaborating with cross-functional teams to optimize lightweight aerospace structures.
Founded in 2015, 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 and V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft. 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 www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube.
Job Description:
Shield AI is seeking a Structural Analyst to support the structural analysis and testing of advanced UAVs. In this role, you will work closely with Mechanical, Systems, Propulsion, and Aerospace Engineers to ensure the structural integrity of our lightweight, high-performance aircraft. You will contribute to the design, analysis, testing, and optimization of airframe structures and components, ensuring they meet performance, weight, and safety requirements.
This role is ideal for engineers with 7+ years of experience looking to gain expertise in finite element analysis (FEA), composite materials, mechanical testing, and aircraft loads analysis in a fast-paced, high-tech aerospace environment.
What you'll do:
- Assist in building and refining finite element models (FEM) to evaluate the structural performance of UAV components.
- Perform static, modal, fatigue, and vibration analyses to assess stress, deformation, and durability.
- Conduct hand calculations to validate FEA results, ensuring accuracy and structural reliability.
- Work with design engineers to optimize airframe structures, balancing weight, strength, and manufacturability.
- Support the development of test plans for structural validation, including quasi-static, vibration, and shock testing.
- Analyze flight telemetry and structural test data to improve modeling accuracy and correlate predictions with real-world performance.
- Assist in defining load cases, material properties, and design margins for UAV airframe and mechanical components.
- Document and present structural analysis reports and technical recommendations to engineering teams.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure structural requirements align with system performance goals.
- Contribute to the continuous improvement of structural analysis methodologies, tools, and best practices.
Required qualifications:
- B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
- 7+ years of experience in structural analysis, finite element modeling, or aircraft loads analysis.
- Experience with FEA tools (ANSYS, NASTRAN, HyperWorks, or similar).
- Strong ability to perform hand calculations for structural strength, stability, and fatigue analysis.
- Knowledge of composite materials and lightweight aerospace structures.
- Familiarity with mechanical testing methods (static, vibration, and fatigue).
- Proficiency with data analysis tools (Excel, MATLAB, Python, or similar).
- Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work in a team environment.
- Ability to get a S//SAR level security clearance desired.
Preferred qualifications:
- Master’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
- Experience in aircraft structural design, UAV airframe development, or aerospace testing.
- Hands-on experience with structural testing, modal analysis, or composite modeling.
- Exposure to CAD software (NX, SolidWorks) and PLM tools (Teamcenter or similar).
- Understanding of aerospace industry standards, structural certification processes, and material selection.
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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.
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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.
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