Staff Software Engineer (Autonomous Aircraft Integration)

Shield AI, a company dedicated to developing cutting-edge autonomy for unmanned aircraft. As a Staff Software Engineer, you will play a crucial role in integrating autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft systems, ensuring seamless operation and mission readiness.

Responsibilities

• You will also support live flight operations, diagnose and resolve integration issues, manage flight data capture and analysis, and collaborate with various teams.
• Integrate autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft systems, ensuring seamless operation across onboard compute, sensors, and control interfaces.
• Own the build, configuration, and validation process for flight-ready systems; coordinate hardware/software compatibility and mission readiness.
• Travel to test sites and support live flight operations, including safety checks, system bring-up, and troubleshooting under time-critical constraints.
• Hands-on experience supporting flight demos or live exercises

Requirements

• This position requires a minimum of 7 years of related experience and offers excellent benefits, including medical coverage, paid parental leave, and competitive compensation.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment
• Competence in sensor integration, electronics debugging, or avionics bring-up
• Typically requires a minimum of 7 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 5 years and a Master’s degree; or 4 years with a PhD; or equivalent work experience
• A successful candidate will be skilled at deploying autonomy solutions onto unmanned platforms, preparing systems for flight, and troubleshooting mission-critical issues in both lab and field environments
• BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, and/or similar degree, or equivalent practical experience
• Direct experience supporting unmanned aerial systems or similar flight test campaigns
• Proficiency in Linux-based development and experience working with embedded systems, shell scripting, and system diagnostics

Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance

• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot and optimize system performance
• Familiarity with autonomy stacks, flight control systems, or GNC pipelines
• This position is ideal for an individual who thrives on solving complex integration challenges that span hardware, software, and systems engineering
• Proficiency in programming languages such as C++ and Python, and familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS)
• Proficiency in developing automation tools for system testing, logging, and data parsing
• The role is highly dynamic, requiring hands-on experience, strong systems thinking, and the ability to operate effectively in fast-paced, real-world test conditions
• Comfortable interfacing with DoD stakeholders during field events or technical reviews

Preferred

• Experience with simulation tools and environments (e.g., AFSIM, NGTS) for testing and validation
• Knowledge of sensor integration, sensor fusion, and middleware frameworks (e.g., ROS, DDS)
• Experience with UCI and OMS Standards

USD 182,720 - 274,080