Full-Time

Senior Structural Analyst

Updated on 2/19/2025

Shield AI

Shield AI

501-1,000 employees

Develops AI and autonomous systems for defense

AI & Machine Learning
Defense

Compensation Overview

$110.4k - $165.6kAnnually

+ Bonus + Equity

Junior, Mid, Senior

Dallas, TX, USA

The job is onsite in the Dallas metro area.

US Top Secret Clearance Required

Category
Materials & Structures
Research & Development
Aerospace Engineering
Required Skills
Python
MATLAB
Data Analysis
Excel/Numbers/Sheets

You match the following Shield AI's candidate preferences

Employers are more likely to interview you if you match these preferences:

Degree
Experience
Requirements
  • B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
  • 0-5 years of experience in structural analysis, finite element modeling, or aircraft loads analysis.
  • Experience with FEA tools (ANSYS, NASTRAN, HyperWorks, or similar).
  • Strong ability to perform hand calculations for structural strength, stability, and fatigue analysis.
  • Knowledge of composite materials and lightweight aerospace structures.
  • Familiarity with mechanical testing methods (static, vibration, and fatigue).
  • Proficiency with data analysis tools (Excel, MATLAB, Python, or similar).
  • Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work in a team environment.
Responsibilities
  • Assist in building and refining finite element models (FEM) to evaluate the structural performance of UAV components.
  • Perform static, modal, fatigue, and vibration analyses to assess stress, deformation, and durability.
  • Conduct hand calculations to validate FEA results, ensuring accuracy and structural reliability.
  • Work with design engineers to optimize airframe structures, balancing weight, strength, and manufacturability.
  • Support the development of test plans for structural validation, including quasi-static, vibration, and shock testing.
  • Analyze flight telemetry and structural test data to improve modeling accuracy and correlate predictions with real-world performance.
  • Assist in defining load cases, material properties, and design margins for UAV airframe and mechanical components.
  • Document and present structural analysis reports and technical recommendations to engineering teams.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure structural requirements align with system performance goals.
  • Contribute to the continuous improvement of structural analysis methodologies, tools, and best practices.
Desired Qualifications
  • Master’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
  • Experience in aircraft structural design, UAV airframe development, or aerospace testing.
  • Hands-on experience with structural testing, modal analysis, or composite modeling.
  • Exposure to CAD software (NX, SolidWorks) and PLM tools (Teamcenter or similar).
  • Understanding of aerospace industry standards, structural certification processes, and material selection.

Shield AI specializes in creating artificial intelligence and autonomous systems specifically for the defense industry. The company develops AI-powered systems, including autonomous drones, that assist military operations, especially in environments where GPS and communications are unavailable. This technology allows for safer and more efficient defense operations. Shield AI differentiates itself from competitors by focusing on advanced AI solutions tailored for challenging military scenarios and by securing significant contracts with government and military clients, such as the multi-billion dollar EWAAC contract. The company's goal is to enhance operational capabilities and safety in defense operations, ultimately aiming to protect lives through its innovative technologies.

Company Size

501-1,000

Company Stage

Late Stage VC

Total Funding

$967.4M

Headquarters

San Diego, California

Founded

2015

Simplify Jobs

Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

  • V-BAT selected by Japan for ISR, expanding Shield AI's maritime defense market.
  • Partnership with Palantir enhances scalable, precision solutions for defense applications.
  • Local presence in Ukraine positions Shield AI to support regional defense needs.

What critics are saying

  • Increased competition from companies like Palantir could impact Shield AI's market share.
  • Complex regulatory environment in India may delay V-BAT drone production.
  • Geopolitical risks in Ukraine could pose operational challenges for Shield AI.

What makes Shield AI unique

  • Shield AI's Hivemind is the first autonomous AI Pilot deployed in combat since 2018.
  • The company focuses on AI systems for defense, enhancing military safety and efficiency.
  • Strategic acquisitions like Martin UAV strengthen Shield AI's position in autonomous systems.

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Benefits

Medical Insurance Coverage

Long Term Disability Insurance

Health Care FSA and Dependent Care FSA

Employee Assistance Program

Subsidized Gym Membership

Pet Insurance

Competitive Compensation

Retirement Services

Life Insurance

Parental Leave

Bereavement Support

Flexible Work Hours

PTO

Paid Holidays

Commuter Benefits

Relaxed Dress Code

Yearly Swag Items

Unlimited Snacks

Bottomless Beverages

Annual Celebrations

Work From Home Benefits

Standing Desks and Widescreen Monitors

Growth & Insights and Company News

Headcount

6 month growth

1%

1 year growth

1%

2 year growth

0%
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