Engineer I, Software - Autonomy Capabilities - New Grad - 6129

The role

You will build and test small, well-defined C++ changes to autonomy software for unmanned systems, under regular guidance from experienced engineers. The work covers unit tests, simulation scenarios, and reproducing failures from logs and debug tools.

What you will do

• Implement small, well-defined C++ changes to autonomy capabilities, examples, configuration, or tooling.
• Add unit tests and simulation scenarios using established frameworks and expected behaviors.
• Analyze simulation outputs and reproduce failures using logs, visualizations, and debug tools with guidance.
• Help connect autonomy capabilities to perception products, platform interfaces, and mission software.
• Document assumptions, test results, and setup instructions; participate in code and design reviews.
• Work with autonomy, perception, integration, and simulation teammates to understand how capabilities are used.

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.
• Foundational C++ or Python programming demonstrated through coursework, projects, research, internships, or work experience.
• Coursework or project exposure to robotics, controls, planning, AI, simulation, or optimization.
• Familiarity with Linux, Git, debugging, and basic software-testing practices.
• Ability to break down well-defined problems, communicate progress, and use feedback to improve work.
• Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance.

Nice to have

• Prior internship or co-op experience writing software.
• Projects involving path planning, controls, state machines, multi-agent systems, or simulation.
• Experience with ROS, pub-sub systems, CMake, containers, CI, or automated tests.
• Experience building simulation, visualization, or data-analysis tools.

Benefits

• Bonus
• Benefits
• Equity (full-time regular employees)

Before you apply

• 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.