Technical Program Manager (R5149)

Shield AI is seeking a Senior Technical Program Manager to lead execution within the XBAT organization. This role is responsible for driving cross-functional integration, technical execution, demonstration readiness, and program coordination across a fast-paced autonomous aircraft development effort.

This position is intentionally geared toward highly technical leaders who bring deep aerospace systems experience and are capable of operating effectively across flight sciences, vehicle integration, aerostructures, autonomy, test, and operations teams. The ideal candidate combines strong engineering intuition with disciplined program execution and thrives in environments where rapid iteration, systems integration, and flight demonstration timelines intersect.

This role will serve as a key integrator across engineering and program functions, helping align technical execution with demonstration objectives, risk reduction activities, and operational milestones.

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related technical discipline

8+ years of experience in aerospace, unmanned systems, autonomous systems, or advanced aircraft development programs

Strong technical background in one or more of the following:

Flight controls

Aerodynamics / flight sciences

Vehicle integration

Systems engineering

Aerostructures

Flight test

Experience working on complex integrated aerospace systems or unmanned aircraft platforms

Demonstrated experience coordinating cross-functional technical teams and driving execution across subsystem boundaries

Strong understanding of systems integration, technical risk management, and development lifecycle execution

Ability to communicate effectively with highly technical engineering teams as well as executive leadership

Strong organizational, leadership, and decision-making skills

U.S. Person status required due to export control regulations

Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired

Experience supporting aircraft demonstration programs or rapid prototyping efforts

Prior experience in unmanned systems, autonomy, VTOL, or advanced mobility platforms

Experience operating in fast-paced development or flight test organizations

Familiarity with model-based systems engineering (MBSE), requirements management, or configuration management processes

Experience with integrated flight test planning and execution

Prior technical leadership transitioning into program management or technical program leadership roles

Active U.S. security clearance