Engineer I, Software - Autonomous Pilot Integration - New Grad - 6125

The role

You will help build and adapt autonomy software for aircraft and mission systems. You will work with experienced engineers on defined software, configuration, and test tasks, and learn how mission behavior, platform control, sensors, and C2 work together.

What you will do

• Implement C++ changes to mission behavior, autonomy configuration, diagnostics, or a platform-interface component with guidance.
• Develop and adapt supported pilot behaviors and reference configurations for defined missions or platforms.
• Run builds and unit or integration tests, and help reproduce issues using simulation, logs, and telemetry.
• Assist with validation of command, status, sensor, and mission data flows in lab or SIL/HIL environments.
• Document setup steps, interface assumptions, test findings, and reproducible failures for the program team.
• Work with other teams on planning, platform interfaces, compute, and test environments.

Required qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• Expected graduation between December 2026 and August 2027.
• Foundational C++ or Python programming shown through coursework, projects, research, internships, or work.
• Familiarity with Linux, Git, debugging, and basic software-testing practices.
• Ability to complete scoped tasks with guidance, communicate progress, and incorporate feedback.
• Must be able to work in-person full-time.
• Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance.

Nice to have

• Prior internship or co-op experience writing software.
• Projects involving autonomy, platform controls, sensors, simulation, or C2 interfaces.
• Familiarity with containers, message buses, networking, or hardware-in-the-loop testing.
• Interest in hands-on lab work and occasional integration or field-test events.

Benefits

• Full-time regular employees: bonus, benefits and equity as part of the offer package.
• Temporary employees: temporary benefits package, applicable after 60 days of employment.
• Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits.

Before you apply

• Offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check.
• Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance is required.
• Must be able to work in-person full-time.

About the company

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company focused on protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation technologies.