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Staff Engineer, Software - Autonomous Aircraft Integration (R4983)

Shield AI· Hivemind Solutions Division – Flight System Integration
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Washington, D.C., Boston, MA, San Diego, CA$182.7k - $274.1kFull Time EmployeePosted 7mo ago

About the role

Staff Engineer responsible for integrating autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft, supporting flight tests, and coordinating hardware/software validation and certification efforts across lab and field environments.

Responsibilities

  • System Integration & Deployment — 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.

Qualifications

  • BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or similar; 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 C++ and Python, and familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS)
  • Proficiency in Linux-based development and experience 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/environments (e.g., AFSIM, NGTS) for testing/validation
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot and optimize system performance
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills in multidisciplinary environments
  • Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance

Skills

Required:Programming (C++/Python)Linux-based developmentSensor integration & fusionFlight testing supportSimulation tools (AFSIM, NGTS)

Benefits

  • Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
  • Full-time regular employee offer package
  • Temporary employee offer package (applicable after 60 days)
Last updated Oct 23, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.

About Shield AI

Autonomy for the world.

Our mission is to protect service members and civilians with intelligent systems.

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