About Shield AI
Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company focused on protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its flagship autonomy software, Hivemind, powers aircraft, drones, and other platforms, enabling complex missions with high reliability in contested environments. With offices in San Diego, Dallas, Washington, D.C., and internationally, Shield AI’s products actively support U.S. and allied operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn,Twitter, and Instagram.
Job Description:
Are you an experienced and innovative Environmental Control Systems (ECS) Engineer looking to help shape the future of AI and robotics technology? Are you eager to make a meaningful impact on cutting-edge products that matter? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment alongside highly motivated and values-focused teammates? Shield AI is the perfect place for you!
As a Principal Environmental Control Systems Engineer at Shield AI, you will lead the design, development, and optimization of environmental control systems for our advanced autonomous UAVs and ground systems. Your expertise in ECS design will drive innovation, prototyping, testing, and the successful integration of solutions that operate reliably in challenging environments. This role requires exceptional technical leadership, collaboration with cross-functional teams, and an unwavering commitment to delivering excellence from concept to production.
What you'll do:
- Lead the end-to-end design and analysis of environmental control systems for aircraft and ground platforms.
- Develop and implement innovative ECS solutions that optimize performance, reliability, and energy efficiency.
- Use first-principles engineering to drive design decisions in thermal management, humidity control, pressurization, and air quality systems.
- Conduct advanced simulations using CFD and FEA tools to predict ECS performance and refine designs.
- Lead testing and validation efforts, including data acquisition, post-processing, and verification against requirements.
- Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to integrate ECS designs into larger system architectures.
- Drive root-cause analysis and resolution of ECS-related failures through data analysis and testing.
- Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering technical growth and excellence within the team.
- Identify opportunities for continuous improvement across ECS development processes, ensuring delivery of high-quality solutions.
- Ensure compliance with regulatory and industry standards for ECS designs.
- Other duties as assigned
Required qualifications:
- Minimum 10+ years of experience in Environmental Control Systems design, with a proven track record of technical excellence.
- B.S. or advanced degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related Engineering discipline.
- Deep understanding of heat transfer, fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and system-level thermal management.
- Advanced proficiency with CFD and FEA tools such as ANSYS, Icepak, or Flotherm for ECS applications.
- Extensive experience in ECS testing, including sensor integration, data acquisition, and analysis.
- Expertise in 3D CAD modeling tools such as Siemens NX or equivalent.
- Demonstrated ability to lead projects, assume full ownership, and deliver exceptional outcomes.
- Proven success in navigating development cycles and launching products in dynamic, fast-paced environments.
Preferred qualifications:
- Experience with ECS design for cutting-edge autonomous robotic systems.
- Familiarity with startup or R&D environments, demonstrating adaptability and agility under pressure.
- Strong knowledge of environmental standards and certification processes for aerospace or defense systems.
- A passion for innovation and the ability to push boundaries in ECS development.
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Total package details for U.S. based positions:
- Regular employee positions: Salary within range listed above + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
- Temporary employee positions: Hourly within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days
of employment)
- Interns/Military Fellows/Part-time not eligible for bonus, benefits or equity
Total package details for International positions which are roles based outside of the United States (where applicable):
- International premium, hardship differential, cost of living differential, living quarters allowance, foreign service transfer
allowance, equity, international benefits, visa assistance, and relocation assistance.
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.
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.
Top Skills
What We Do
Shield AI is building the world's best AI pilot. Our Hivemind autonomy stack is the first and only autonomous AI Pilot, deployed in combat since 2018. Hivemind enables intelligent teams of aircraft to perform missions ranging from room clearance, to penetrating air defense systems, and dogfighting F-16s.
Why Work With Us
What makes Shield AI special is our people. We unlock the power of autonomy, and in the face of overwhelming odds and challenges, we find ways to win and make a difference for our customers. We bring together software, AI, and aerospace engineering disciplines to deploy the most intelligent aviation capabilities in the world.
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