Staff Software Engineer, GCS - Full Stack (R5192)

The role

This person will design, build and improve web-based ground control station and command and control software for unmanned missions. They will also lead technical direction for major features, mentor mid-level engineers and support live field missions.

What you will do

• Design, develop and optimize web-based ground control station and command and control software.
• Own technical direction, architecture and APIs for major GCS features and full-stack subsystems.
• Act as the main technical interface with autonomy, perception, flight operations and external partners.
• Mentor mid-level engineers and formally onboard senior new hires.
• Drive design reviews, UI/UX prototyping and API/interface definitions.
• Own build, configuration and validation of mission-ready ground stations and C2 web servers.
• Travel to test sites and support live mission operations, including debugging systems in the field.
• Diagnose and resolve integration, latency and performance issues across GCS, radio links and telemetry streams.
• Build post-mission debrief and telemetry analysis tools.
• Interview candidates and help define the skills bar for open roles.

Required qualifications

• BS/MS in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.
• Typically 7 years of related experience with a Bachelor's degree, 6 years with a Master's, or 4 years with a PhD, or equivalent work experience.
• Experience with modern frontend frameworks such as React and TypeScript.
• Experience building backend or full-stack systems in C/C++, Python, TypeScript or Go.
• Deep familiarity with networked and distributed systems, including UDP/TCP, binary protocols and pub-sub middleware.
• Experience using AI-assisted development tools while keeping engineering judgment and ownership of decisions.
• Experience with relational or NoSQL databases.
• Demonstrated experience owning a major software capability from architecture through field delivery.
• Track record of mentoring engineers.
• Experience authoring or negotiating interface contracts, API specifications or ICDs.
• Strong debugging and profiling skills.
• Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance.

Nice to have

• Experience with GIS and web mapping libraries such as Maplibre GL, Leaflet, CesiumJS or OpenLayers.
• Familiarity with web video streaming protocols and multimedia frameworks.
• Experience with post-mission telemetry analysis or playback systems.
• Experience with containerization and orchestration such as Docker and Kubernetes.
• Experience with MAVLink, STANAG 4586 or DoD C2 standards such as A-GRA, UCI or OMS.
• Experience working with flight operators, pilots or military stakeholders.
• Active Secret or Top Secret clearance.

Benefits

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

Before you apply

• Offers are contingent on a cleared background check and possible reference check.
• Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits.
• The role requires the ability to obtain a SECRET clearance.

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.