a16z Senior Propulsion Technician (R4638)
Posted Updated 3
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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 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.
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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.
Skills
As published by lever · 21 questions · 9 written answers
Basics
Resume/CV, Full name, Email, Phone, Current location, Current company, LinkedIn URL, Twitter URL, GitHub URL, Portfolio URL, Other website
Short answers (1)
- Please state your full legal name:
Pick from a list (11)
- Are you authorized to work in the United States?
- Will you require sponsorship for employment now or in the future?
- This position may require access to information and technology that is subject to export controls, such as EAR. Are you any of the following?
- Shield AI provides technology, services, and support to the United States military and allied forces with their various missions. If selected for employment with Shield AI, your contributions will directly relate to and/or support these missions. Are there any reasons why you would not be able to fully contribute in support of the U.S. military and allied forces?
- How did you hear about us?
- Are you a transitioning service member?
- If yes, what partnership program are you working with? optional
- Are you local to or willing to relocate? optional
- What office(s) would you be willing to relocate to? (Select all that apply) optional
- Do you have, or are you able to obtain, a S/SAR clearance? optional
- Did you see a LinkedIn post that encouraged or inspired you to apply for this role? optional
Written answers (9)
- If yes, what type of sponsorship? optional
- If you selected "A protected Individual" OR "Other" to the above question, please explain further. optional
- (Optional) If you selected other or would like to expand on the above, feel free to do so below: optional
- If "Industry Conference" or "Other," please provide more details: optional
- If other, please provide further details optional
- When are you available to start your fellowship? optional
- When are you available for full time work? optional
- What full time job(s) are you applying for?
- If you selected international, what location(s)? optional