Manager, Propulsion (Engine)

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 LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube. Job Description: We are seeking a Manager of Propulsion to lead the development and execution of engine and thrust vector control (TVC) systems for the X-BAT vehicle, powered by a fighter-class, afterburning jet engine.

This role leads a team of propulsion engineers and technicians responsible for developing, integrating, testing, and operating flight-critical propulsion hardware from concept through flight and operational deployment. You will work closely with propulsion Responsible Engineers (REs), controls, airframe, flight test, manufacturing, and leadership teams to ensure engine and TVC development aligns with vehicle-level objectives, mission requirements, and program milestones.

This role requires strong technical leadership, hands-on engagement, and the ability to drive execution in a fast-paced aerospace development environment.