Shield AI

Senior Lab Technician (R5317)

Shield AI$80K — $95K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 4-6 years of experience in aircraft/Lab maintenance and prototype fabrication.
  • Proficient in the fabrication, installation, and removal of metallic mechanisms.
  • Hands-on experience with manual and/or CNC machine shop operations.
  • Ability to read engineering drawings, schematics, and detailed work instructions.
  • Comfortable in noisy, dusty, and chemical-exposed shop and lab environments.
  • Physical capability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform extended physical work.
  • Eligible to obtain a Secret level security clearance.

Responsibilities

  • Construct and assemble aerospace systems like landing gear and fluid systems based on engineering specifications.
  • Support new product design, prototyping, and fabrication for R&D initiatives and flight-ready hardware.
  • Repair components with aerospace-grade materials using standard industry techniques.
  • Fabricate and modify fixtures and hardware for prototypes as required.
  • Install precision sensors and gauges following instrumentation schematics.
  • Integrate data acquisition systems and ensure sensor accuracy.
  • Conduct thorough mechanical testing under varied loads and document results.

Benefits

  • Bonus and equity options included in full-time offer package.
  • Temporary benefits package applies after 60 days for temporary employees.
  • Opportunity to work in a hands-on, innovative aerospace environment.
Full Job Description
Job Description:

We are seeking a highly skilled Hardware in the Loop Lab Technician to support the fabrication, instrumentation, and testing of new aerospace products. This role is ideal for a hands-on builder who thrives in dynamic environments, has deep experience working with aircraft systems and fabrication methods, and has a background building and maintaining a Systems Integration Lab.

You will be a key contributor in helping bring cutting-edge designs to life, playing a vital role in everything from early-stage prototype development to detailed testing and validation of final assemblies.

What you'll do:
  • Construct and assemble air vehicle systems and subsystems such as landing gear, mechanisms, fluid systems, test articles in alignment with engineering drawings, engineering instructions, and CAD models.
  • Support the design, prototyping, and fabrication of new products, R&D initiatives, and flight-ready hardware.
  • Work with aerospace-grade materials and perform component repairs using industry-standard techniques and tools.
  • Fabricate fixtures, machine brackets, and execute rapid modifications on prototype hardware as needed.
  • Install strain gauges, thermocouples and various sensors according to precise instrumentation schematics.
  • Route cabling, integrate data acquisition systems, and verify sensor calibration and operational status.
  • Conduct mechanical testing by applying static and dynamic loads per detailed engineering procedures.
  • Document test outcomes clearly and report anomalies or irregularities in a timely manner.
  • Ensure a clean, organized, and safe workspace across shop, lab, and composite work areas.
  • Contribute to ongoing improvements in instrumentation standards, testing procedures, and fabrication workflows.
  • Source and manage inventory for parts and equipment needed for component repair or replacement.

Required qualifications:
  • 4-6 years of experience in aircraft/Lab maintenance, prototype fabrication, test stand design & fabrication.
  • Proficient in metallic and mechanisms fabrication, installation & removal.
  • Hands-on experience in machine shop operations, including manual and/or CNC tools.
  • Ability to read engineering drawings, schematics, and detailed work instructions.
  • Comfortable working in shop and lab environments with exposure to noise, dust, and chemicals.
  • Ability to lift and move parts and equipment (up to 50 lbs.) and perform physical work for extended periods.
  • Ability to obtain a Secret level security clearance.

Preferred qualifications:
  • Familiarity with a variety of mechanical systems (e.g., hydraulic actuators, pumps, fluids, load frames, DAQ systems).
  • Familiarity with a variety of electrical systems (e.g., cable harness checkouts, electrical connections, power requirements).
  • Experience in aerospace, automotive, defense, or high-performance prototyping environments.
  • Able to work independently and adapt quickly to changing technical needs.

#LI-AD6

#LC

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.

About Shield AI

Shield AI is a defense technology company that develops artificially intelligent systems for military applications. The company was founded in 2015 by Brandon Tseng, Ryan Tseng, and Andrew Reiter, and is headquartered in San Diego, California. Shield AI's products include autonomous drones and software that can be used for reconnaissance, surveillance, and other military operations. The company's mission is to reduce the number of military casualties by providing soldiers with better intelligence and situational awareness. Shield AI has received funding from a number of investors, including Andreessen Horowitz and Founders Fund.
Learn more about Shield AI
Size
200 employees
Industry
Founded
2015

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