Staff Engineer, Thermal - Air Vehicle (R4856)

Are you a passionate and innovative thermal engineer looking to help develop the next generation VTOL strike aircraft? Are you eager to make a positive difference in the world? Do you want to work alongside mission-driven and values-focused teammates? Shield AI is just the place for you!

As a Staff Aircraft Thermal Engineer you will solve many of the most challenging thermal problems on the XBAT aircraft program, including hot exhaust gas management and aircraft-level thermal environments and characterization and more.
This role is best suited for an engineer who thrives on first-principles problem solving, can operate autonomously in solving challenging thermal problems, and bridges technical disciplines with clear communication. You will shape designs, guide engineering peers in thermal disciplines, and deliver robust thermal solutions that meet mission-critical aerospace requirements.

B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related discipline.

Minimum 7 years of professional experience in thermal engineering.

Deep expertise in heat transfer (conduction, convection, radiation) and fluid mechanics.

Advanced understanding of active and passive cooling solutions.

Knowledge of thermal management techniques for aircraft bays, engine bays, and hot surfaces.

Proficiency with thermal analysis and CFD tools (e.g., FloEFD, STAR-CCM+, Thermal Desktop).

Proficiency with CAD design tools such as NX, SolidWorks, or similar

Demonstrated ability to apply first-principles reasoning to complex engineering problems.

Strong communication and leadership skills.

Demonstrated record of working hard, being a trustworthy teammate, holding yourself and others to high standards, and being kind to others

M.S. in a relevant engineering discipline.

Extensive experience with high-altitude aircraft thermal management, analysis, and design.

Familiarity with aircraft integration constraints (power, weight, volume, maintainability, safety).

Hands-on experience with thermal and fluid system testing, instrumentation, and validation.

Knowledge of materials and manufacturing methods relevant to aerospace thermal management.

Experience guiding trade studies.

Background in multi-disciplinary system integration, spanning avionics, fluid systems, and systems engineering.