Shield AI logo

Manager, Propulsion (Test)

Shield AI

On-site
Dallas, TX
Full-time
Manager
7+ yrs
Salary not listedPosted 4w ago

Real job — pulled straight from Shield AI’s careers page · Verified July 14, 2026 · No reposts.

Job description

Shield AI is hiring a Manager, Propulsion (Test) — a full-time, based in Dallas, TX role. Apply directly on Shield AI's careers page below.

Manager, Propulsion (Test) (R5089)

Team: X-BAT Engineering - Propulsion

Location: Dallas, Texas

Commitment: Full Time Employee

Workplace Type: onsite

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, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedInXInstagram, and YouTube. 

Job Description:

We are seeking a Manager of Propulsion to lead propulsion test development and execution for the X-BAT vehicle, powered by a fighter-class, afterburning jet engine. This role oversees propulsion test infrastructure, engine testing, subsystem validation, and flight test support activities required to mature propulsion hardware from development through operational readiness.

You will lead a team of propulsion test engineers and technicians responsible for designing, building, and operating propulsion test stands and facilities supporting engine, fuel, oil, bleed air, and TVC systems. This role requires strong technical leadership, operational awareness, hands-on involvement in testing activities, and the ability to rapidly solve complex technical problems in demanding test environments.

What you'll do:

  • Lead propulsion test planning and execution from component-level development through flight readiness.
  • Oversee the design, analysis, and construction of propulsion test stands, fixtures, instrumentation systems, and safety systems.
  • Support propulsion REs in defining test objectives, instrumentation strategies, and data analysis methodologies.
  • Guide teams through propulsion thermodynamic analysis, transient characterization, thermal performance evaluation, and operability validation.
  • Drive root cause investigations and rapid troubleshooting efforts during testing activities.
  • Coordinate test schedules, facility readiness, staffing, and supplier support.
  • Ensure propulsion testing aligns with vehicle-level milestones and program priorities.
  • Lead development of test processes, standards, and operational best practices.

Required qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related engineering discipline.
  • 7-10+ years of experience in propulsion testing or aerospace development programs.
  • Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and aerospace propulsion fundamentals.
  • Strong understanding of gas turbine engine testing, instrumentation, transient response, and propulsion system integration.
  • Hands-on experience designing or operating propulsion test stands and facilities.
  • Experience leading technical teams and coordinating complex test operations.
  • U.S. Citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements.
  • Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.

Preferred qualifications:

  • Experience testing fighter-class or low-bypass turbofan propulsion systems.
  • Familiarity with Python, REFPROP, GFSSP, ANSYS, FEA, or propulsion performance analysis tools.
  • Experience with controls integration, TVC testing, transient characterization, or operability mapping.
  • Background in rocket propulsion testing or hot-fire development environments.
  • Experience operating in hardware-centric, test-driven aerospace organizations.
  • M.S. or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering or related discipline.
#LI-MS1
#LD

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.
 
###
 
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. 

Get Engineering Manager jobs like this

New roles from thousands of companies land hourly, straight from their careers pages. Get the freshest matches by email so you never miss one.

Email me new jobs
AMD logo

AMD

New

Senior Customer Quality Engineer, Data Center & Networking Solutions

$140k–$200kSan Jose, CA
✓ From careers page· 19m ago
Bosch logo

Validation Engineer

Ovar, PT
✓ From careers page· 1h ago
Bosch logo

Product Engineer

Juárez, Chih.
✓ From careers page· 1h ago
Bosch logo

Mechanical Design Engineer, Power Electronics

Suzhou, Jiangsu
✓ From careers page· 1h ago

Frequently asked questions

What skills are required for Manager, Propulsion (Test) at Shield AI?

The required skills for Manager, Propulsion (Test) at Shield AI include: Mechanical Engineering, Python, ANSYS.

What is the seniority level for Manager, Propulsion (Test) at Shield AI?

Manager, Propulsion (Test) at Shield AI is a Manager level position.

How do I apply for Manager, Propulsion (Test) at Shield AI?

You can view the full description and apply for Manager, Propulsion (Test) at Shield AI on EchoJobs: https://echojobs.io/job/shield-ai-manager-propulsion-test-r5089-vxudi.