Engineer II, Software - Autonomous Pilot Integration - New Grad - 6127

The role

This role builds and maintains autonomy software for pilot integration on Shield AI's platforms. You will implement and test C++ changes, support simulation and field testing, and coordinate with platform and test teams on bounded program-specific changes.

What you will do

• Implement and test C++ changes to mission behavior, platform pilot extensions, configuration and diagnostics.
• Develop and apply core pilot behaviors for a defined platform or mission set.
• Validate autonomy use of vehicle-control, perception, mission-compute and C2 interfaces.
• Build unit, integration and mission-scenario tests and debug using logs, telemetry and simulation.
• Support SIL/HIL, bench and representative test events and capture evidence.
• Coordinate platform-interface and deployment issues with Integration & Test and platform owners.
• Work with the Autonomy Capabilities team on defects or enhancements to shared planning and decision-making.
• Document mission configuration, limitations, test procedures and lessons learned.

Required qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's, Master's or PhD in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or a related field, graduating between December 2026 and August 2027.
• Typically 2+ years of related experience with a Bachelor's degree, or equivalent work experience; relevant graduate work or substantial project experience may be considered.
• Working proficiency in C++ or Python, with experience implementing, debugging and testing a software feature on Linux.
• Hands-on experience building autonomy or robotics software through professional work, research or substantial projects.
• Experience with software integration, simulation or representative system testing, and completing a bounded change with tests and documentation.
• Ability to communicate risks and interface assumptions with engineers from other disciplines.
• Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance.

Nice to have

• Experience with mission behaviors, vehicle/autopilot interfaces, sensor or perception data, or C2 workflows.
• Familiarity with SIL/HIL, pub-sub systems, containers, CI, telemetry analysis or field testing.
• Experience collaborating with platform vendors or systems and test engineers.

Benefits

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

Before you apply

• Offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check.
• Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits.
• Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance is required.

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.