Flight Test Engineer (R2634)

Introduction to Shield AIFounded 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: Are you a passionate, innovative, and experienced in aircraft ground and flight system-level testing looking to help develop state-of-the-art AI and robotics products? Are you eager to make a positive difference in the world? Do you want to work alongside mission driven and values focused teammates? Shield AI is just the place for you!

As a Flight Test Engineer, you will lead the integration and verification efforts for our vertical take-off unmanned aerial vehicle, demonstrating flightworthiness and mission capability. You will work cross-functionally in a dynamic and fast paced environment to help to plan and conduct UAV ground and flight testing in support of product development and prototyping.

What you'll do:

• Lead the planning, execution, and analysis of ground and flight tests for V-Bat unmanned system
• Conduct flight tests, rigorously assessing system capabilities and performance
• Engage hands-on during flight test operations, ensuring precise execution and data collection
• Drive hardware and software modifications based on thorough analysis and feedback obtained from testing outcomes.
• Lead flight readiness reviews, pre-flight briefs, debriefs, etc. in a test conductorcapacity.
• Document test procedures, results, and lessons learned to contribute to the continuous improvement of flight test processes.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies to ensure the safety of flight test operations.

Required qualifications:

• 2+ years of hands-on flight test experience required
• B.S. degree in STEM discipline, preference for Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering
• Demonstrated track record of assuming ownership over development processes and features and delivering outstanding outcomes
• 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 client expectations in a fast-paced environment
• Proactively identify opportunities for improvement within Flight Test Engineering, demonstrating initiative to propose and implement innovative solutions that enhance efficiency, quality, and overall project success and V-Bat reliability
• You are organized and methodical.
• You are a strong communicator, both written and verbally.
• Demonstrated track record of assuming ownership over processes and delivering outstanding outcomes
• Proactively identify opportunities for improvement within software development projects, demonstrating initiative to propose and implement innovative solutions that enhance efficiency, quality, and overall project success and V-Bat reliability
• Demonstrated adaptability, agility, and the ability to innovate under pressure to meet dynamic project demands and drive successful outcomes.

Preferred qualifications:

• Proficiency in MATLAB
• Proficiency in Python
• Design experience
• Experience building or prototyping small aircraft or RC components
• Previous UAV operations and/or maintenance
• Proven background in thriving within fast-paced environments, particularly within startup or R&D settings