Senior Engineer, Software - Autonomous Aircraft Integration (R3775)
Job Description
Shield AI, founded in 2015, is an innovative defense technology company at the forefront of developing autonomous systems for military and civilian protection. This senior software engineering role focuses on autonomous aircraft integration within their Hivemind Solutions Division.
The position demands a unique blend of software engineering expertise and hands-on experience with unmanned aircraft systems. As a Senior Engineer, you'll be responsible for bridging the crucial gap between R&D and real-world deployment of autonomous systems. The role involves complex integration challenges spanning hardware, software, and systems engineering, with a particular focus on deploying autonomy solutions onto unmanned platforms.
Working from either Washington DC, Boston, or San Diego, you'll be part of a dynamic team that supports U.S. and allied operations worldwide. The role requires approximately 30-40% travel for flight integration events and customer site visits, making it perfect for someone who enjoys hands-on field work combined with technical problem-solving.
Key responsibilities include integrating autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft systems, managing pre-flight preparations, supporting live flight operations, and conducting thorough system debugging. You'll work with cutting-edge technologies including embedded systems, sensor fusion, and real-time operating systems, using languages like C++ and Python.
The ideal candidate brings at least 5 years of relevant experience, strong programming skills, and a deep understanding of Linux-based development and embedded systems. Experience with flight demos, simulation tools, and sensor integration is crucial. The role offers competitive compensation ($160,000-$240,000) plus bonus, benefits, and equity, reflecting the high-level expertise required.
This position offers an exciting opportunity to work on meaningful projects that directly impact service members' safety while advancing the field of autonomous aircraft systems. You'll be joining a growing company with international presence and the chance to work with advanced technology in a mission-driven environment.
Responsibilities For Senior Engineer, Software - Autonomous Aircraft Integration (R3775)
- Integrate autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft systems
- Own build, configuration, and validation process for flight-ready systems
- Support live flight operations including safety checks and system bring-up
- Diagnose and resolve integration issues across autonomy software stacks
- Manage data collection during missions and post-test analysis
- Work with autonomy, GNC, systems, and test teams
- Build tools and processes to improve integration timelines
- Assist with documentation and system-level validation
- Travel 30-40% of the year for different office locations and flight integration events
Requirements For Senior Engineer, Software - Autonomous Aircraft Integration (R3775)
- BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or similar
- 5 years experience with Bachelor's or 4 years with Master's or 2 years with PhD
- Proficiency in C++ and Python programming languages
- Experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS)
- Proficiency in Linux-based development and embedded systems
- Knowledge of sensor integration, sensor fusion, and middleware frameworks
- Hands-on experience supporting flight demos
- Experience with simulation tools and environments
- Strong problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills
- Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance
Benefits For Senior Engineer, Software - Autonomous Aircraft Integration (R3775)
- Bonus
- Benefits Package
- Equity
