Modeling & Simulation Engineer (R4869)

The role

You will build and improve the simulation platform for Shield AI's next-generation VTOL aircraft. The work is mainly C++ simulation software, aircraft models, and verification and validation of simulation results against test and vendor data.

What you will do

• Develop infrastructure and models in C++ for autonomous aircraft simulation.
• Serve as a subject matter expert in modern aerospace and software engineering.
• Architect deterministic, high-performance simulation software.
• Lead verification and validation (V&V) analysis studies on models and model tooling.
• Collaborate with autonomy, embedded, GNC, and test engineering teams so the simulation mirrors real aircraft behavior.
• Contribute to platform-agnostic simulation tooling.
• Train and guide junior engineers in modeling and simulation best practices.

Required qualifications

• BS in Computer Science, Aerospace, Robotics, or a related field.
• 7+ years of experience in simulation software development with C++ competency; exceptional candidates with less experience and demonstrated depth will be considered.
• Strong understanding of rigid-body dynamics, kinematics, and the physics of dynamic systems.
• Proven experience developing or integrating simulation systems for robotics, aerospace, or other complex dynamic systems (e.g., maritime, space, defense ground systems, or gaming).
• Ability to debug complex build and runtime environments.
• Experience with simulation verification and validation.
• Strong communication skills across software, hardware, and systems disciplines.
• Must be eligible to obtain a Secret Clearance; requires US Citizenship.

Nice to have

• MS or PhD in Computer Science, Aerospace, Robotics, or a related field.
• Familiarity with modern C++ standards (C++20 or later).
• Grasp of real-time and deterministic software design, including multi-threading, synchronization, and memory management.
• Experience with DevOps-integrated simulation workflows, including CI/CD and automated testing.
• Experience with Hardware- and Software-in-the-Loop simulation, including integrating real hardware.
• Experience with CMake, package managers (e.g. Conan, Nix), and profiling tools.
• Experience with software testing tools (GTest, etc.).
• Working knowledge of Python for data analysis, test automation, or simulation orchestration.
• Experience working on autonomous aircraft systems.
• Active Secret or Top Secret Clearance.

Benefits

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

Before you apply

• Secret clearance eligibility requires US Citizenship.
• All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check.
• 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.