Job Description:Shield AI is redefining autonomous aviation with cutting-edge AI and GPS/RF-denied navigation technologies. Now, we're building our next-generation aircraft, XBAT, that will push the boundaries of innovation and performance.
As one of the first Component Engineers at Shield AI, you'll be a foundational hire building the function from the ground up - defining process, tooling, and standards, not just executing an existing playbook. You'll guide component selection and own the qualification and lifecycle management of piece-part Electrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical (EEE) components across our aircraft PCBAs - driving decisions that reduce risk, control cost, and ensure long-term product reliability and survivability. This role sits at the intersection of engineering, supply chain and reliability.
What you'll do:- Establish and scale Component Engineering processes, tools, and standards as one of the function's first dedicated hires
- Define baseline quality and certification requirements for EEE components across the XBAT aircraft
- Qualify and up-screen EEE components for use in aerospace applications, driving environmental and bench-top testing.
- Own component data and governance in PLM and the ECAD part library, including lifecycle status and approved vendor list
- Contribute to component failure analysis and root cause efforts
- Monitor and assess PCNs and lifecycle changes (NRND/EOL), and drive mitigation actions
- Support supply chain with alternate part evaluations and second-sourcing strategies
- Engage directly with suppliers to resolve technical questions
Required qualifications:- B.S. in an engineering, physics or materials science
- 5+ years of relevant experience
- Deep knowledge of EEE components
- Understanding of Product Lifecycle Management, ECAD tools and structured component libraries
- Strong judgment in balancing performance, cost and supply chain risk
- Demonstrated ability to lead technical discussions and influence design decisions across engineering, supply chain, and program teams - including in ambiguous, fast-moving environments without an established playbook
Preferred qualifications:- Experience building or scaling a component engineering function in a startup or fast-growth environment
- Familiar with industry-standard component qualification process (AEC-Q, NASA, JEDEC, MIL, etc)
- Knowledge of electrical component manufacturing processes and common failure modes
- Experience writing specifications/standards for internal company distribution
$121,000 - $182,000 a year
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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.
