Technical Program Manager

Senior Technical Program ManagerFounded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software and V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI's technology actively supports operations worldwide.Job Description:Shield AI is seeking a Senior Technical Program Manager to lead execution of the Hopper Demonstration Program within the XBAT organization. This role is responsible for driving cross-functional integration, technical execution, demonstration readiness, and program coordination across a fast-paced autonomous aircraft development effort.This position is intentionally geared toward highly technical leaders who bring deep aerospace systems experience and are capable of operating effectively across flight sciences, vehicle integration, aerostructures, autonomy, test, and operations teams. The ideal candidate combines strong engineering intuition with disciplined program execution and thrives in environments where rapid iteration, systems integration, and flight demonstration timelines intersect.This role will serve as a key integrator across engineering and program functions, helping align technical execution with demonstration objectives, risk reduction activities, and operational milestones.What you'll do:Lead day-to-day execution of the Hopper Demonstration Program across engineering, integration, flight test, and operations stakeholdersDrive integrated program planning, technical coordination, and execution tracking across multiple subsystem teamsCoordinate activities spanning flight controls, aero/performance, aerostructures, avionics, autonomy, software, and vehicle integrationPartner closely with engineering leads to identify technical risks, integration gaps, and critical path dependenciesSupport development and execution of demonstration campaigns, flight readiness activities, and test event planningFacilitate technical reviews, milestone assessments, configuration reviews, and executive program updatesDrive cross-functional alignment between design, manufacturing, integration, test, and operational teamsHelp mature systems integration processes, demonstration workflows, and execution rigor across the programTrack and communicate program status, technical risks, mitigation plans, and schedule impacts to leadershipSupport rapid problem solving and decision-making in dynamic development and flight test environmentsRequired qualifications:Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related technical discipline8+ years of experience in aerospace, unmanned systems, autonomous systems, or advanced aircraft development programsStrong technical background in one or more of the following: Flight controlsAerodynamics / flight sciencesVehicle integrationSystems engineeringAerostructuresFlight testExperience working on complex integrated aerospace systems or unmanned aircraft platformsDemonstrated experience coordinating cross-functional technical teams and driving execution across subsystem boundariesStrong understanding of systems integration, technical risk management, and development lifecycle executionAbility to communicate effectively with highly technical engineering teams as well as executive leadershipStrong organizational, leadership, and decision-making skillsU.S. Person status required due to export control regulationsAbility to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desiredPreferred qualifications:Experience supporting aircraft demonstration programs or rapid prototyping effortsPrior experience in unmanned systems, autonomy, VTOL, or advanced mobility platformsExperience operating in fast-paced development or flight test organizationsFamiliarity with model-based systems engineering (MBSE), requirements management, or configuration management processesExperience with integrated flight test planning and executionPrior technical leadership transitioning into program management or technical program leadership rolesActive U.S. security clearance$170,000 - $260,000 a yearFull-time regular employee offer package: Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + EquityTemporary 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.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.