Staff Engineer, Software - Autonomous Aircraft Integration (R4983)

The role

This Staff Engineer will integrate autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft systems and prepare them for flight. The role includes hands-on debugging, on-site flight test support, and working with autonomy, GNC, systems and test teams.

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 hardware and software integration issues
• Manage flight data collection and post-test analysis
• Work with autonomy, GNC, systems and test teams
• Build tools and processes to improve integration and test efficiency
• Support documentation and validation for certification and compliance

Required qualifications

• BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical, Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent practical experience
• Minimum 7 years related experience with a Bachelor's; 5 years with a Master's; 4 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 package (full-time regular employees)
• Temporary benefits package applicable after 60 days of employment (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.