Principal Engineer, Aero-Performance (R2797)

Introduction to Shield AI

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company whose mission is to protect service members and civilians with intelligent systems. In pursuit of this mission, Shield AI is building the world’s best AI pilot. Its AI pilot, Hivemind, has flown a fighter jet (F-16), a vertical takeoff and landing drone (V-BAT), and a quadcopter (Nova). The company has offices in San Diego, Dallas, Washington DC and abroad. Shield AI’s products and people are currently in the field actively supporting operations with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. allies.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

As an Aerodynamics-Performance Engineer, you will lead the development and optimization of aerodynamic performance for aircraft engineering. Your expertise will be critical in ensuring that our aircraft achieve optimal aerodynamic efficiency, stability, and performance across a variety of operational conditions.

WHAT YOU'LL DO:

Lead the aerodynamic design, analysis, and optimization of UAS, focusing on performance, stability, and efficiency.

Conduct computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and wind tunnel tests to validate aerodynamic designs.

Develop and implement aerodynamic performance models and tools to support design and flight operations.

Support conceptual and preliminary design efforts of aircraft and components

Progress infrastructure for databases, codes, and tools management

Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including structural engineers, propulsion engineers, and control systems engineers, to ensure integrated and optimized aircraft performance.

Analyze flight test data to validate and refine aerodynamic models and designs.

Stay updated with the latest advancements in aerodynamics and apply best practices to our systems.

Mentor and provide technical leadership to junior engineers and contribute to the continuous improvement of our engineering processes.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Typically requires a minimum of 15 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 14 years and a Master’s degree; or a PhD with 12 years experience; or equivalent experience.

Extensive experience in aerodynamic design and analysis, particularly for unmanned or autonomous aircraft.

Experience partnering with a multidisciplinary engineering team, including mechanical, electrical, propulsion, software, and AI disciplines

Solid understanding of aerodynamic fundamentals, CFD techniques, and wind tunnel testing

Experience with aerodynamic tools and techniques, e.g. vortex-lattice, panel-method, etc.

Experience with Matlab or Python for data analysis

Familiarity with translating aerodynamic analyses into workable design solutions for flight vehicles

Familiarity with lofting/surfacing tools in Solidworks (or equivalent CAD software tools) for generating water-tight geometries

Proven track record of successfully shipping products, showcasing the ability to navigate through development cycles, overcome obstacles, and deliver high-quality solutions to meet project deadlines and exceed expectations in a fast-paced environment.

You have a demonstrated record of working hard, being a trustworthy teammate, holding yourself and others to high standards, and being kind to others.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Experience with UAVs or other autonomous systems.

Knowledge of aircraft propulsion systems and integration.

Familiarity with flight control systems and their impact on aerodynamic performance.

Experience with Pointwise, Tecplot or similar CFD software tools

Experience with low-speed airfoil design

Experience with wind tunnel testing

Experience with aeroelasticity and flutter analysis

#LF

#LI-AC1

Total package details for U.S. based positions:

- Regular employee positions: Salary within range listed above + Bonus + Benefits + Equity

- Temporary employee positions: Hourly within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days

of employment)

- Interns/Military Fellows/Part-time not eligible for bonus, benefits or equity

Total package details for International based positions (where applicable):

- International premium, hardship differential, cost of living differential, living quarters allowance, foreign service transfer

allowance, equity, international benefits, visa assistance, and relocation assistance.

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.

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.

Apply for this job

Principal Engineer, Aero-Performance (R2797)

Other AI Jobs like this

Flight Test Engineer (R2634)

Director of Mechanical Engineering (R2885)

Aerodynamics & Performance Engineering Intern - 2025 Summer Intern

Engineering

Data

Other Roles

Locations