Shield AI is seeking a Principal Loads Engineer to serve as the technical authority for aircraft loads and aeroelastic analysis across advanced UAV platforms. In this role, you will define and lead the full-vehicle loads strategy—establishing the methodologies, assumptions, and validation approaches that govern structural sizing, aeroelastic stability, airworthiness, and flight performance.

You will operate as a subject-matter expert in aerodynamic and structural loads derivation, influencing aircraft architecture and control strategies while ensuring loads traceability from concept through flight test and certification. This role is ideal for engineers with 12–15+ years of experience who have led loads development on complex aerospace programs and are comfortable setting technical direction, mentoring engineers, and partnering closely with program and engineering leadership.

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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.