Senior Engineer, Software - Autonomous Aircraft Integration (R5200)

The role

This role integrates autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft systems and prepares them for flight. The work covers pre-flight preparation, on-site flight test support, and debugging across hardware and software.

What you will do

• Integrate autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft systems
• Own the build, configuration and validation of flight-ready systems
• Travel to test sites and support live flight operations
• Diagnose and resolve integration issues across autonomy software and embedded systems
• Manage data collection during missions and post-test analysis
• Work with autonomy, GNC, systems and test teams to deliver mission-critical functionality
• Build tools and processes to improve integration timelines and test reliability
• Assist with documentation and validation for certification, airworthiness and compliance

Required qualifications

• BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical, Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering or similar, or equivalent practical experience
• Typically 5 years of related experience with a Bachelor's degree; or 4 years with a Master's; or 2 years with a PhD; or equivalent work experience
• Proficiency in C++ and Python
• Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS)
• Proficiency in Linux-based development, embedded systems, shell scripting and system diagnostics
• Knowledge of sensor integration, sensor fusion and middleware frameworks such as ROS or DDS
• Hands-on experience supporting flight demos or live exercises
• Experience with simulation tools such as AFSIM or NGTS
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance

Nice to have

• Direct experience supporting unmanned aerial systems or similar flight test campaigns
• Familiarity with autonomy stacks, flight control systems or GNC pipelines
• Competence in sensor integration, electronics debugging or avionics bring-up
• Proficiency in developing automation tools for system testing, logging and data parsing
• Comfortable interfacing with DoD stakeholders during field events or technical reviews
• Experience with UCI and OMS Standards

Benefits

• Bonus
• Equity (full-time regular employees)
• Benefits (full-time regular employees)
• Temporary benefits package after 60 days (temporary employees)

Before you apply

• All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check
• Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance is required
• Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits

About the company

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company that builds intelligent systems to protect service members and civilians. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation technologies.