Lead Prototype Technician (R5476)

Shield AI
Dallas
Workplace: OnsiteFull timeUSD 43 - 64 hourlyFunction: Field Service, Maintenance & Skilled TradesExperience: 10+ yearsSkills: ["Troubleshooting","Problem-solving","Mentoring","Craftsmanship","Collaboration"]

Build first-of-kind autonomous aircraft prototype hardware from engineering concept through flight-ready delivery. Execute aircraft structural assembly, precision machining, and advanced composite manufacturing (wet layup, bonding, vacuum bagging, repairs). Interpret engineering drawings and CAD/GD&T, provide DFM feedback, and develop repeatable build work instructions and tooling. Support validation and flight test campaigns, and mentor Prototype Technicians to raise quality and craftsmanship standards.

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FursaFursa
Shield AI
Shield AI
1 day ago

Lead Prototype Technician (R5476)

✓ Verified Job

Canonical indexed version, validated from employer's careers page.

Source: Company careers pageValidated by: Fursa AI
Last checked: 6 hours agoStatus: Live

Job Summary

Build first-of-kind autonomous aircraft prototype hardware from engineering concept through flight-ready delivery. Execute aircraft structural assembly, precision machining, and advanced composite manufacturing (wet layup, bonding, vacuum bagging, repairs). Interpret engineering drawings and CAD/GD&T, provide DFM feedback, and develop repeatable build work instructions and tooling. Support validation and flight test campaigns, and mentor Prototype Technicians to raise quality and craftsmanship standards.
Location: Dallas
Workplace: Onsite
Employment Type: Full time
Job Function: Field Service, Maintenance & Skilled Trades
Seniority: Manager level

Key Responsibilities

  • •Build prototype, developmental, and first article aircraft from concept through flight-ready hardware.
  • •Perform precision operations and mechanical integration, including structural assembly and modifications.
  • •Execute advanced composites manufacturing and structural repairs, finishing, and final assembly.
  • •Interpret engineering drawings/CAD models/specifications (including GD&T) and provide DFM feedback.
  • •Develop manufacturing work instructions, tooling/fixtures, and support validation, qualification builds, and flight test campaigns.

Pay and Benefits

Salary: USD 43 - 64 hourly
Equity and Bonus:Equity
Perks:Health InsuranceDentalVision401kPaid LeaveEquity

Key Requirements

  • •10+ years of aerospace manufacturing or prototype experience.
  • •Extensive aircraft structural assembly experience.
  • •Advanced composites experience, including wet layup and structural repair.
  • •Experience with engineering development builds.
  • •Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings and GD&T.
Experience:10+ yearsAerospace manufacturingAircraft structural assemblyCompositesPrototype developmentEngineering development builds
Skills:TroubleshootingProblem-solvingMentoringCraftsmanshipCollaboration
Tech Stack:CADGD&TVacuum baggingWet layupComposite manufacturing

Eligibility

Security Clearance:U.S. Security Clearance

Company Brief

Shield AI
Develops AI-powered autonomy and software for military aircraft and drones to enable autonomous ISR and combat missions, integrating perception, navigation, and mission planning for defense customers.
Industry: Defense Technology
Company Size: Large (251 to 1,000 employees)
Growth: Scaleup
Funding: Series E+
Headquarters: San Diego, United States
Founded: 2015
WebsiteLinkedIn