Sr. Manager, Aerostructures Design, X-BAT (R5633)

Shield AI was founded to protect service members and civilians with intelligent systems. We are building the world’s best AI pilot and the aircraft that enable autonomy at scale. Our technology operates in complex, contested environments where GPS and communications may be denied, degraded, or unavailable.

The technology we build demands cross-functional teaming and collaborative execution to solve the hardest problems in autonomy, aerospace engineering, and robotics. Engineers at Shield AI do not work in silos — they work shoulder-to-shoulder across disciplines to rapidly move from concept to flight-ready systems deployed in the real world.  

X-BAT represents the next generation of autonomous airpower: a runway-independent, AI-piloted aircraft designed to execute missions in highly contested environments. Powered by Hivemind, Shield AI’s combat-proven autonomy stack, X-BAT combines long-range performance, survivability, and autonomous mission execution into a scalable operational platform.  

The Sr Manager of Aerostructures Design for X-BAT, role requires a technically elite aerospace leader who thrives in fast-moving environments, can build and scale high-performing engineering organizations, and is energized by solving complex problems that directly impact national security.

Lead the aerostructures design organization for the X-BAT program.

Drive development of lightweight, manufacturable, survivable aircraft structures optimized for autonomous combat aircraft operations

Partner closely with flight sciences, propulsion, avionics, manufacturing, autonomy, flight test, and supply chain teams to deliver integrated aircraft solutions

Establish engineering processes, design standards, configuration management, and structural development roadmaps across the program lifecycle

Oversee development and validation of composite and metallic airframe structures, including primary load-bearing assemblies

Build and mentor a world-class aerostructures engineering team capable of rapid execution and technical excellence

Support transition from development programs into scalable production environments

Drive root-cause analysis and corrective action efforts for structural, manufacturing, and flight-test findings

Present technical reviews, program risks, and strategic recommendations to executive leadership and external stakeholders

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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.