Senior Staff Engineer, Systems Integration (R5415)

The role

This role designs, builds and maintains C++ and Python software for complex, cross-platform systems. The work centers on system integration, APIs and messaging interfaces, distributed systems, and CI/CD workflows.

What you will do

• Design, implement and maintain C++ and Python software for complex, cross-platform systems.
• Contribute to system architecture with a focus on performance, maintainability and integration.
• Develop and support APIs and messaging interfaces such as gRPC, REST and ZeroMQ.
• Integrate third-party software and hardware systems, including real-time and simulation tools.
• Debug and support distributed systems, with attention to threading, timing and data flow.
• Apply agile practices such as test-driven development, continuous integration and automated testing.
• Improve and maintain CI/CD workflows using tools like GitLab CI, Docker, CMake and Conan.
• Collaborate across teams and projects to share solutions and promote good software practices.
• Continuously learn and adapt to new tools, standards and technologies.

Required qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of related experience with a Bachelor's degree; or 4 years and a Master's degree; or 2 years with a PhD; or equivalent work experience.
• Strong proficiency in modern C++ (C++14/17/20) and ability to work in legacy codebases (C++98/03).
• Proficiency in Linux/Unix environments, including system-level development and debugging tools.
• Experience with Python.
• Professional experience in Linux environments.
• Solid understanding of system-level engineering and design patterns.
• Experience in a collaborative environment with CI/CD and test automation.
• Experience with containerization technologies such as Docker.
• Active SECRET clearance.

Nice to have

• Experience integrating distributed simulation environments such as AFSIM or NGTS.
• Familiarity with open standards like UCI and OMS, and data buses and interface protocols common in avionics and aircraft systems.
• Familiarity with simulation tools and modeling frameworks.
• Experience with networking concepts and messaging infrastructure.
• Hands-on experience with CMake, Conan and GitLab CI/CD pipelines.
• Exposure to real-time systems and hardware/software integration.
• Ability to obtain a TS/SCI clearance.
• Windows experience.

Benefits

• Bonus
• Benefits
• Equity

Before you apply

• An active SECRET clearance is required.
• All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check.
• Pay depends on factors including skill set, experience, licenses and certifications, and work location.

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.