Senior Component Engineer

Job Description:

Shield AI is redefining autonomous aviation with cutting-edge AI and GPS/RF-denied navigation technologies. Now, we’re building our next-generation aircraft, XBAT, like no other-one that will push the boundaries of innovation and performance.

As a Component Engineer at Shield AI, you’ll own the selection, qualification, and lifecycle management of electronic components across our products. You will drive component decisions that reduce risk, control cost and ensure long-term product reliability and survivability. This role sits at the intersection of engineering, supply chain and reliability.

What you'll do:

• Own component data and governance in PLM (part creation, attributes, AML/AVL, lifecycle states)
• Review and approve new component requests
• Define baseline quality requirements for COTS components and enforce them through design BOM reviews
• Monitor and assess PCNs and lifecycle changes (NRND/EOL), and drive mitigation actions through Engineering Change Orders (ECOs)
• Partner with Electrical Engineering to select components that meet performance, cost, and availability targets
• Build and maintain preferred parts lists and approved vendor lists (AVL)
• Support supply chain with alternate part evaluations and second-sourcing strategies
• Engage directly with suppliers to resolve technical questions

Required qualifications:

• B.S. in an engineering field.
• 5+ years of relevant experience
• Understanding of Product Lifecycle Management (Arena, Teamcenter), ECAD tools (Altium) and structured component libraries
• Strong judgment in balancing performance, cost and supply chain risk
• Demonstrated track record of ownership, high standards, and effective collaboration
• Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.

Preferred qualifications:

• Degree in electrical engineering or computer science
• Familiar with industry-standard component qualification process (AEC-Q, NASA, JEDEC, MIL, etc)
• Knowledge of electrical component manufacturing processes and common failure modes.
• Proficiency in Python/SQL
• Experience writing specifications/standards for internal company distribution