Electrical Engineer, Hardware Test (R5099)

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software and V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube.

Job Description

At Shield AI, we are revolutionizing defense technology to protect service members and civilians with intelligent, autonomous systems. Our Hardware Test Engineering team plays a critical role in ensuring the V-BAT remains the most reliable, mission-ready UAV in the industry. We design cutting-edge test solutions—custom-built electrical and mechanical systems that push our hardware to its limits in real-world and extreme environments.

As an Electrical Engineer on our Hardware Test team, you’ll have the opportunity to design and automate test systems that validate everything from power electronics to RF communications. You'll work hands-on with PCB design, Python scripting, and advanced environmental testing (HASS, ESS, HALT) to ensure the highest standards of reliability. If you're passionate about building rock-solid hardware and thrive in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment, this role is for you.

What you'll do

Design and own test systems for critical UAV components and subsystems, from concept to validation.

Work across multiple EE disciplines, including power electronics, RF, communications, and system integration.

Develop PCBs to interface between test stands and the device-under-test (DUT).

Build custom test fixtures integrating relays, PLCs, PCBAs, and harnessing for automated and high-fidelity testing.

Automate test sequences using Python, ensuring repeatability, efficiency, and scalability.

Collaborate in cross-functional design reviews, advocating for testability improvements that streamline hardware validation.

Adapt and innovate in a fast-moving, high-stakes environment, where your work directly impacts mission success.

Required qualifications

B.S. in Electrical Engineering or equivalent hands-on experience OR you are an undergraduate, graduate or PhD student expected to graduate in 2026.

Strong foundation in electrical, mechanical, and software engineering principles.

Experience in multidisciplinary hardware projects—whether through internships, jobs, clubs, personal projects, or research.

A track record of ownership, innovation, and delivering results in complex technical environments.

A team-first mindset, holding yourself and others to high standards, while being adaptable and solution-oriented.

A track record of working hard, being a trustworthy teammate, holding yourself and others to high standards, and being kind to others.

Preferred qualifications

Proficiency in Python or other scripting languages for automation.

Experience with PCB design tools (Altium, KiCAD, Eagle, etc.).

Familiarity with CAD tools (SolidWorks, NX, CATIA) for mechanical fixture design.

Ability to problem-solve under pressure and pivot quickly in a dynamic, fast-paced engineering environment.