About the role
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, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. 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: We are currently seeking a highly skilled Sr. Staff Technician to support the development and build of V-BAT unmanned aircraft system across mechanical, electrical, and propulsion systems. This is a hands-on, cross-disciplinary role for an experienced technician who thrives in a fast-paced engineering environment and partners closely with engineers to bring new designs to life. The ideal candidate will interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and evolving design
requirements to execute complex assemblies, troubleshoot system-level issues, and contribute to rapid prototyping efforts. This role requires strong technical judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to deliver high-quality hardware while influencing build processes, design improvements, and overall system integration. \n
What you'll do: Lead hands-on build, integration, and rework of V-BAT prototype mechanical, electrical, and propulsion systems. Serve as the primary technician partner to engineering during development cycles, translating engineering intent into high-quality hardware. Execute complex mechanical and electrical assemblies, including harnessing, avionics integration, propulsion installs, and structural builds. Diagnose and troubleshoot system-level issues across vehicle subsystems, driving root cause identification and corrective actions. Support rapid prototyping efforts, including custom fabrication, modifications, and iterative design feedback. Collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, and propulsion engineers to improve design for manufacturability, reliability, and serviceability. Develop and refine build processes, work instructions, and best practices for prototype and low-rate builds. Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior technicians, setting standards for quality, efficiency, and workmanship. Maintain strict adherence to safety, quality, and configuration control processes in a fast-paced R&D environment. Required