Shield AI

Senior Propulsion Technician (R4638)

Shield AI$90K — $110K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 3-5 years of experience with aircraft engines (military or civilian)
  • Background in aerospace industry or military aviation maintenance
  • Expertise in troubleshooting gas turbine, reciprocating, or hybrid propulsion systems
  • Ability to interpret technical manuals and engineering documents
  • Experience in high-energy, high-precision environments
  • Meticulous attention to detail and strong safety mindset
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen or comply with ITAR requirements

Responsibilities

  • Conduct assembly and disassembly of UAV propulsion systems
  • Perform pre- and post-flight inspections for operational readiness
  • Operate test cells for engine validation and troubleshooting
  • Diagnose mechanical and electrical issues with propulsion systems
  • Collaborate with engineers and flight test teams for system readiness
  • Document maintenance activities and inspections
  • Follow safety protocols and standard operating procedures

Benefits

  • Bonus opportunities
  • Equity options
  • Comprehensive benefits package including health and wellness programs (after 60 days for temporary employees)
Full Job Description
We are seeking a highly skilled Propulsion Technician to join our X-BAT Propulsion Engineering team, specializing in UAV propulsion systems. In this role, you will be responsible for the assembly, testing, troubleshooting, and maintenance of low-bypass turbofan engines in both test cell environments and pre/post-flight operations. Our team owns the engine from start to finish, requiring technicians with a high level of expertise, attention to detail, and a strong problem-solving mindset.

We are particularly looking for candidates with an A&P license, prior experience working with aircraft engines, and a background in aerospace companies or military aviation maintenance. If you are a self-starter, high-energy technician who thrives in a hands-on, fast-paced environment, we want to hear from you.

What you will do in this role:
  • Conduct engine assembly, disassembly, and integration for UAV propulsion systems.
  • Perform pre-flight and post-flight inspections, ensuring all propulsion systems meet operational standards.
  • Operate test cells for engine validation, tuning, and troubleshooting.
  • Diagnose and resolve mechanical, electrical, and performance issues related to propulsion systems.
  • Work closely with engineers and flight test teams to ensure system readiness.
  • Maintain detailed records of maintenance activities, inspections, and modifications.
  • Follow strict safety protocols and standard operating procedures in handling high-performance UAV propulsion systems.

Required qualifications:
  • Minimum 3-5 years of experience working on aircraft engines (military or civilian).
  • Prior experience at an aerospace company or military aviation unit.
  • Strong troubleshooting skills with gas turbine, reciprocating, or hybrid propulsion systems.
  • Ability to interpret technical manuals, schematics, and engineering documents.
  • Comfortable working in high-energy, high-precision environments.
  • Strong safety mindset, with meticulous attention to detail.
  • U.S. Citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements.
  • Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.

Preferred qualifications:
  • Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) License.
  • Military background, particularly in jet propulsion, UAVs, or rotary-wing aircraft.
  • Experience with unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) propulsion.
  • Knowledge of fuel systems, ignition systems, and advanced propulsion technologies.
  • Hands-on experience with engine dynamometers, test cells, or ground support equipment.
  • FAA Powerplant or military equivalent engine qualifications.
  • Ability to work independently, taking ownership of full-cycle propulsion system maintenance.

#LI-MS

#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

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Shield AI

More Aerospace & Defense Jobs

Find similar Senior Propulsion Technician (R4638) jobs: