a16z Manager, Propulsion (Test) (R5089)
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 . Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, 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.
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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.
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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.