Mechanical Engineering Tech - Temp

Dallas, TexasX-BAT Division - X-BAT Engineering - LRV /Full Time Employee /On-siteShield 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, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube. Job Description:Are you a passionate and innovative product design engineer looking to help develop state-of-the-art AI and aircraft products? We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Structures/Mechanical Test Engineer to support the development, testing, and validation of advanced mechanical systems for the Launch and Recovery Vehicle. force, pressure, strain, displacement), be proficient in python for test automation and data analysis, and demonstrate expert level proficiency in CAD tools such as NX.You’ll work across disciplines to ensure structural integrity, manufacturability, and mission-readiness in one of the most advanced autonomous aircraft platforms being built today. This role is ideal for an engineer who thrives in fast-paced, high-ownership environments and is passionate about building systems that matter.What you'll do:Develop and execute test plans to validate mechanical performance, structural integrity, and environmental durability from start to finish.Design, build, and operate test fixtures and systems involving hydraulic actuation, mechanical linkages, and sensor instrumentation.load cells, pressure transducers, strain gauges, accelerometers) into test setups for accurate data collection.Create and maintain python scripts to provide automation, signal processing, and result visualization.Analyze test data, troubleshoot system behaviors, and generate technical reports with design feedback.Collaborate with cross-functional teams including mechanical design, systems, and electrical engineering to define test requirements, run test campaigns and deliver high quality results.Lead CAD design of custom test equipment, prototypes, fixtures, and components, ensuring manufacturability and safety.Perform Finite Element Analysis to simulate mechanical performance, validate design assumptions, and correlate analytical results with test data.Work with metallic/composite materials in the design, fabrication, and testing of mechanical components, with consideration for their unique properties such as anisotropy, delamination risk, and layup configuration.Support lab safety protocols, equipment maintenance, and improvement of test capabilities.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related discipline.2+ years of professional experience in mechanical/fluids testingUnderstanding of heat transfer (conduction, convection, radiation) and fluid mechanics.Proficiency with mechanical testing of large structures and ground vehiclesExperience with CAD design tools such as NX, SolidWorks, or similar.Demonstrated experience applying first-principles reasoning to complex engineering problems.Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.Experience with UAVs, aircraft, or robotic systems for large ground vehiclesHands-on experience performing MIL-STD testing (e.g., MIL-STD-810, MIL-STD-461) including vibration, shock, thermal, and EMI/EMC testing.Subject Matter Expert in aerospace structures and dynamics test environments.Familiarity with electro-mechanical actuatorsHands-on machine shop or mechanic experience (professional or hobby)Ability to thrive in startup, R&D, or defense innovation environments$88,075 - $132,113 a year#LI-MS1#LBFull-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. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. 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. We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.