About Shield AI
Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company focused on protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its flagship autonomy software, Hivemind, powers aircraft, drones, and other platforms, enabling complex missions with high reliability in contested environments. With offices in San Diego, Dallas, Washington, D.C., and internationally, Shield AI’s products actively support U.S. and allied operations worldwide.
Job Description:
We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Composite Aircraft Structure Assembly Technician to support the fabrication and assembly of advanced composite airframe structures. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with composite layup, bonding, drilling, fastening, sealing, and precision assembly of aircraft structural components in a production or prototype environment. Experience working on stealth or next-generation aircraft platforms (e.g., F-35, B-21, or similar) is highly preferred.
What You'll Do:
- Perform assembly and fabrication of composite aircraft structures using prepreg layup, vacuum bagging, curing, and bonding processes.
- Work with composite, metallic, and hybrid materials to manufacture and assemble aircraft structural components.
- Utilize precision drilling, fastening, sealing, and torqueing techniques to assemble airframe structures to aerospace tolerances.
- Interpret and follow engineering drawings, blueprints, work instructions, and technical documentation to ensure compliance with specifications.
- Operate CNC trimming, cutting, and bonding equipment as needed to fabricate composite structures.
- Conduct quality inspections of assembled components to ensure compliance with AS9100, NADCAP, and MIL-SPEC standards.
- Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams to troubleshoot and resolve production issues.
- Maintain a high level of attention to detail, accuracy, and safety in a fast-paced aerospace production environment.
- Work with sealants, adhesives, shimming, and assembly jigs to ensure proper fit and finish.
- Perform rework and repair, and other modifications of composite components as required.
- Train and mentor junior technicians to ensure best practices are followed.
Required Qualifications:
- 7+ years of hands-on experience in composite aircraft structure assembly, preferably with fighter, bomber, or UAV platforms.
- Proficiency with composite layup, bonding, sealing, and fastening processes.
- Experience working with aerospace-grade composite materials (carbon fiber, fiberglass, Kevlar, etc.).
- Strong ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and work instructions.
- Familiarity with aerospace assembly tools such as drills, reamers, torque wrenches, and CMM measurement tools.
- Ability to work in a classified or ITAR-restricted environment.
- Strong understanding of aerospace manufacturing standards, including AS9100 and MIL-SPECs.
- Experience with precision measuring equipment such as calipers, micrometers, and depth gauges.
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in confined spaces as needed.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience on stealth aircraft programs (F-35, B-21, NGAD, or similar).
- Active security clearance (Secret or higher preferred).
- Knowledge of automated drilling, bonding, and fastener installation technologies.
- Associate’s degree or technical certification in Aerospace Manufacturing, Composites, or a related field.
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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.
