Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed deep-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include the V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, Hivemind Enterprise, and the Hivemind Vision product lines. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and the 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:

Shield AI is seeking a highly experienced CNC Programmer / Machinist (Level 4) to play a critical role in the development of next-generation autonomous aerospace systems. This position operates at the intersection of engineering and manufacturing, enabling rapid hardware iteration by transforming complex digital designs into precision-machined components—often under aggressive timelines and evolving requirements.

As part of a fast-paced prototype machining environment, you will work directly with design, manufacturing, and test engineers to bring early-stage concepts to life. Unlike traditional production roles, this position emphasizes adaptability, creativity, and speed. You will routinely machine first-of-their-kind parts, refine processes in real time, and contribute to design decisions through hands-on feedback and Design for Manufacturability (DFM) insights.

Success in this role requires deep technical expertise in multi-axis CNC machining, along with the judgment to balance precision, efficiency, and urgency. You will be expected to independently manage complex jobs from programming through final inspection, while also navigating shifting priorities and incomplete data. The ability to problem-solve on the fly—whether addressing tolerance challenges, optimizing toolpaths, or developing quick-turn fixturing—is essential.

This role also carries a leadership component. As a Level 4 machinist, you will help set the standard for technical excellence on the shop floor, mentor less experienced team members, and contribute to building scalable prototype machining processes that support rapid product development. Your work will directly impact the speed, quality, and success of Shield AI’s hardware programs.