Senior Software Engineer (Autonomous Aircraft Integration)

• Shield AI is committed to developing cutting-edge autonomy for unmanned aircraft operating across all Department of Defense (DoD) domains, including air, sea, and land
• Our Flight Integration Engineers are essential to bridging the gap between R&D and deployment, ensuring that autonomous systems function reliably and effectively when and where they are needed most
• System Integration & Deployment — You’ll integrate autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft systems, ensuring seamless operation across onboard compute, sensors, and control interfaces
• Pre-flight Preparation — Own the build, configuration, and validation process for flight-ready systems; coordinate hardware/software compatibility and mission readiness
• On-site Flight Test Support — Travel to test sites and support live flight operations, including safety checks, system bring-up, and troubleshooting under time-critical constraints
• Hardware/Software Debugging — Diagnose and resolve integration issues across complex autonomy software stacks and embedded systems in lab and field environments
• Flight Data Capture & Analysis — Manage data collection during missions and post-test analysis, working with autonomy engineers to refine behaviors and identify improvements
• Collaboration Across Teams — Work closely with autonomy, GNC, systems, and test teams to ensure mission-critical functionality is delivered on time and validated thoroughly
• Continuous Improvement — Build tools and processes to improve integration timelines, flight test reliability, and team efficiency across deployment cycles
• Support Certification and Compliance — Assist with documentation and system-level validation required for certification, airworthiness, and compliance in defense-relevant environments

Benefits

• Excellent Medical Coverage
• Mental Health Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Parental Leave
• Pet Insurance
• Flexible Work Hours
• Onsite Gym (DC)
• Gym Discount (San Diego)
• Free Parking
• Competitive Compensation
• Stock Benefits
• 401K Services and Match- This position is ideal for an individual who thrives on solving complex integration challenges that span hardware, software, and systems engineering
• A successful candidate will be skilled at deploying autonomy solutions onto unmanned platforms, preparing systems for flight, and troubleshooting mission-critical issues in both lab and field environments
• The role is highly dynamic, requiring hands-on experience, strong systems thinking, and the ability to operate effectively in fast-paced, real-world test conditions
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot and optimize system performance
• Proficiency in Linux-based development and experience working with embedded systems, shell scripting, and system diagnostics
• Typically requires a minimum of 5 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 4 years and a Master’s degree; or 2 years with a PhD; or equivalent work experience
• Experience with simulation tools and environments (e.g., AFSIM, NGTS) for testing and validation
• Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance
• BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, and/or similar degree, or equivalent practical experience
• Hands-on experience supporting flight demos or live exercises
• Knowledge of sensor integration, sensor fusion, and middleware frameworks (e.g., ROS, DDS)
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment
• Proficiency in programming languages such as C++ and Python, and familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS)
• Familiarity with autonomy stacks, flight control systems, or GNC pipelines
• Direct experience supporting unmanned aerial systems or similar flight test campaigns
• Competence in sensor integration, electronics debugging, or avionics bring-up
• Proficiency in developing automation tools for system testing, logging, and data parsing
• Comfortable interfacing with DoD stakeholders during field events or technical reviews
• Experience with UCI and OMS Standards