Preheat your air fryer to 360ºF (182ºC) for about 5 minutes.
Prepare the dry rub. Mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
Prep the pork. Pat the pork shoulder roast dry with paper towels. Then, rub the olive oil all over the roast. Next, sprinkle this seasoning blend evenly over the pork, pressing gently to adhere.
Air fry the pork shoulder roast. Place the seasoned pork shoulder in the air fryer. Cook at 360ºF (182ºC) for 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160ºF (71ºC). Flip the roast halfway.
Brush with BBQ Sauce. About 10 - 15 minutes before the roast is done, brush a generous layer of your favorite BBQ sauce all over the pork. Let it cook for the remaining time, allowing the sauce to caramelize.
Check the meat for doneness. Check the temperature of the pork shoulder roast using an instant-read thermometer. Once the internal temp reads 160ºF (71ºC), remove the pork from the air fryer. Otherwise, continue roasting.
Rest and slice the pork shoulder. Let the roast rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute for maximum flavor. Once rested, cut the pork roast into your preferred portions.
Serve and enjoy your air-fried pork shoulder roast. Partner it up with your favorite sides and savor the irresistible flavors.