About the role
Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed deep-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include the V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, Hivemind Enterprise, and the Hivemind Vision product lines. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and the 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 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. \n
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