Shield AI · 2 months ago
Staff Engineer, Software - Autonomous Aircraft Integration (R3949)
Washington DC Metro Area
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level, Lead/Staff
$183K/yr - $274K/yr
7+ years expShield AI is a venture-backed deep-tech company focused on protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. The Staff Engineer, Software role involves integrating autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft systems, preparing systems for flight, and supporting live flight operations to ensure reliable functionality in critical environments.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)Autonomous VehiclesDronesMachine LearningNational Security
No H1B
Security Clearance RequiredU.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Integrate autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft systems, ensuring seamless operation across onboard compute, sensors, and control interfaces
Own the build, configuration, and validation process for flight-ready systems; coordinate hardware/software compatibility and mission readiness
Travel to test sites and support live flight operations, including safety checks, system bring-up, and troubleshooting under time-critical constraints
Diagnose and resolve integration issues across complex autonomy software stacks and embedded systems in lab and field environments
Manage data collection during missions and post-test analysis, working with autonomy engineers to refine behaviors and identify improvements
Work closely with autonomy, GNC, systems, and test teams to ensure mission-critical functionality is delivered on time and validated thoroughly
Build tools and processes to improve integration timelines, flight test reliability, and team efficiency across deployment cycles
Assist with documentation and system-level validation required for certification, airworthiness, and compliance in defense-relevant environments
Qualification
Required
BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, and/or similar degree, or equivalent practical experience
Typically requires a minimum of 7 years of related experience with a Bachelor's degree; or 5 years and a Master's degree; or 4 years with a PhD; or equivalent work experience
Proficiency in programming languages such as C++ and Python, and familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS)
Proficiency in Linux-based development and experience working with embedded systems, shell scripting, and system diagnostics
Knowledge of sensor integration, sensor fusion, and middleware frameworks (e.g., ROS, DDS)
Hands-on experience supporting flight demos or live exercises
Experience with simulation tools and environments (e.g., AFSIM, NGTS) for testing and validation
Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot and optimize system performance
Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment
Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance
Preferred
Direct experience supporting unmanned aerial systems or similar flight test campaigns
Familiarity with autonomy stacks, flight control systems, or GNC pipelines
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
Benefits
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
Company
Shield AI
Shield AI is a deep-tech company that focuses on developing AI-powered systems to enhance the safety of service members and civilians.
1001-5000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
$1.31BKey Investors
Hercules CapitalUS Innovative Technology FundSnowpoint Ventures
2025-03-06Series F· $240M
2023-12-29Debt Financing· $200M
2023-10-31Series F· $300M
Leadership Team
Gary Steele
Chief Executive Officer
Brandon Tseng
Co-Founder
Recent News
Company data provided by crunchbase