Senior Staff Software Engineer (Autonomy Capabilities)

Join Shield AI as a Senior Staff Software Engineer in the Autonomy Capabilities Team. This team focuses on developing advanced autonomy algorithms for unmanned platforms across various domains. You will design tactical autonomy algorithms, develop high-performance software, implement behavior architectures, and collaborate with cross-functional teams. The role requires a strong background in robotics, programming, and unmanned system technologies. Benefits include excellent medical coverage, flexible work hours, and competitive compensation.

Design tactical autonomy algorithms to enable unmanned aircraft to perform complex missions across air, land, and sea domains with minimal human supervision.

This position is perfect for an individual who enjoys solving complex problems across a diverse set of programs and integration contexts

An ideal candidate is expected to address operational system needs through a multitude of advanced methodologies that blend traditional control system approaches with advanced optimization

USD 280,512 - 420,768

Responsibilities

• Develop high-performance software modules that incorporate planning, decision-making, and behavior execution strategies for dynamic and adversarial environments.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including perception, planning, simulation, hardware, and flight test to ensure seamless integration of autonomy solutions on real-world platforms.
• Work on behaviors applicable across air, ground, and maritime vehicles

Requirements

• Experience with simulation tools and environments (e.g., AFSIM, NGTS) for testing and validation
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot and optimize system performance
• Proficiency in programming languages such as C++ and Python, and familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS)
• Significant experience with unmanned system technologies and accompanying algorithms (specifically air domain)
• Significant background in robotics technologies related to motion planning, behavior modeling, decision-making, or autonomous system design

Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance

• BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, and/or similar degree, or equivalent practical experience
• Typically requires a minimum of 10 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 9 years and a Master’s degree; or 7 years with a PhD; or equivalent work experience
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment
• Experience applying ML/RL techniques in autonomy pipelines
• Familiarity with tactical behaviors for unmanned systems in DoD or government programs
• Hands-on experience supporting flight demos or live exercises
• Experience with UCI and OMS Standards

Preferred

• Background in collaborative behaviors, swarm robotics, or distributed decision-making