Shield AI

Overview

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company founded in 2015, focused on protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. The L4 Staff Welder is a senior-level fabrication specialist responsible for precision welding and aerospace hardware fabrication in a fast-paced R&D environment.

Responsibilities

• Perform precision TIG/GTAW welding on aerospace materials including stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, and Inconel.
• Fabricate prototype assemblies, fixtures, tooling, and development hardware from engineering drawings, CAD models, and sketches.
• Read and interpret blueprints, welding symbols, and GD&T requirements.
• Work closely with design, manufacturing, and test engineers to iterate prototype designs rapidly.
• Execute welds capable of meeting aerospace inspection standards including dye penetrant, leak testing, and X-ray inspection.
• Set up and operate welding and fabrication equipment including TIG welders, orbital welders, saws, grinders, positioners, and fixturing tools.
• Inspect completed welds for dimensional accuracy, penetration, distortion, and cosmetic quality.
• Repair weld defects and recommend process improvements to improve manufacturability and repeatability.
• Support development and qualification of welding procedures and work instructions.
• Maintain compliance with AS9100, AWS, OSHA, and internal quality standards.
• Mentor junior welders and assist in establishing best practices within the fabrication shop.
• Document fabrication activities, process notes, and prototype deviations accurately.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required; technical welding certification preferred.
• 8+ years of precision welding experience in aerospace, motorsports, defense, or prototype manufacturing environments.
• Expert-level TIG/GTAW welding proficiency.
• Experience welding thin-wall tubing and precision assemblies.
• Ability to pass aerospace weld qualification tests in multiple positions and materials.
• Strong understanding of metallurgy, weld distortion control, heat management, and fixturing.
• Ability to read complex engineering drawings and GD&T.
• Experience with aerospace inspection requirements and quality systems.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills in cross-functional engineering environments.

Additional Information

• This position operates within a prototype aerospace fabrication shop supporting rapid development programs.
• Work may involve quick-turn engineering changes, low-volume production, and high-precision hardware fabrication under tight schedules.