Chief Engineer, Autonomy (R3568) at Shield AI

California, United States

Shield AI Logo
Not SpecifiedCompensation
Expert & Leadership (9+ years)Experience Level
Full TimeJob Type
UnknownVisa
Defense Technology, AerospaceIndustries

Requirements

  • BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering, and/or similar degree
  • 10+ years of industry experience in autonomy and/or UAS platforms (e.g., defense tech, self-driving car, etc.)
  • 7+ years of delivering software into production/certifiable environments with high-reliability
  • Understanding of guidance, control and navigation (GNC) (e.g. controls, estimation, planning)
  • Understanding of robotics stack (e.g., controls, estimation, perception, planning, etc.)
  • Understanding of software development processes and how to effectively deploy software
  • Experience defining technical scope and managing technical requirements, product architectures, ICDs and other system level design documentation
  • Demonstrate problem solving skills by applying a scientific technical approach
  • Customer-facing engineering leader supporting both defense and internally funded development programs
  • Contribute to government contract proposal writing
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Excellent leadership skills, driving a team of 6-20 engineers
  • Defense industry experience as a Chief Engineer and a proven track record of leading technical teams to develop and deploy autonomous systems

Responsibilities

  • Serve as the Chief Engineer on Shield AI projects focused on developing and deploying autonomy solutions for unmanned aircraft
  • Lead a team responsible for advancing Hivemind Autonomy and shaping Department of Defense (DoD) autonomy architectures
  • Define and assign technical objectives, make key engineering decisions, and ensure the quality and completeness of all technical deliverables
  • Provide technical leadership and oversight across both Internal Research and Development (IRAD) initiatives and DoD contracts

Skills

Autonomy Systems
UAS
System Architecture
Technical Leadership
DoD Architectures
IRAD
Risk Mitigation
Product Quality
Engineering Design
Development

Shield AI

Develops AI and autonomous systems for defense

About Shield AI

Shield AI specializes in creating artificial intelligence and autonomous systems specifically for the defense industry. The company develops AI-powered systems, including autonomous drones, that assist military operations, especially in environments where GPS and communication may not be available. This technology allows for safer and more efficient defense operations. Shield AI differentiates itself from competitors by focusing on advanced AI capabilities and securing significant contracts with government and military clients, such as the multi-billion dollar EWAAC contract. The company's goal is to enhance operational capabilities and safety in military contexts, ultimately aiming to protect lives through its innovative solutions.

San Diego, CaliforniaHeadquarters
2015Year Founded
$772.8MTotal Funding
DEBTCompany Stage
AI & Machine Learning, DefenseIndustries
501-1,000Employees

Benefits

Medical Insurance Coverage
Long Term Disability Insurance
Health Care FSA and Dependent Care FSA
Employee Assistance Program
Subsidized Gym Membership
Pet Insurance
Competitive Compensation
Retirement Services
Life Insurance
Parental Leave
Bereavement Support
Flexible Work Hours
PTO
Paid Holidays
Commuter Benefits
Relaxed Dress Code
Yearly Swag Items
Unlimited Snacks
Bottomless Beverages
Annual Celebrations
Work From Home Benefits
Standing Desks and Widescreen Monitors

Risks

Increased competition from companies like Waymo could divert investment from Shield AI.
Geopolitical tensions may challenge the JSW Defence partnership for V-BAT production in India.
Dependency on Palantir's infrastructure may limit Shield AI's operational flexibility.

Differentiation

Shield AI's Hivemind is the first autonomous AI pilot deployed in combat since 2018.
Strategic partnerships with Palantir and JSW Defence enhance technological capabilities and market reach.
Shield AI's V-BAT drone is selected for a $198 million U.S. Coast Guard contract.

Upsides

Increased demand for autonomous systems in defense boosts Shield AI's market potential.
Successful multi-aircraft autonomous flight tests showcase advanced AI piloting capabilities.
Significant investment in robotics indicates a robust market for Shield AI's offerings.

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