Manager, Autonomy Applications Engineering (R3722) at Shield AI

California, United States

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

Senior (5 to 8 years), Expert & Leadership (9+ years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Defense, Aerospace, RoboticsIndustries

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field
7+ years of industry experience, including:
2+ years in a customer-facing or autonomy-focused engineering role
2+ years leading technical teams or engineering projects
Experience with autonomy platforms or robotic systems (hardware and/or simulation)
Proficiency in C++ and working knowledge of Python
Strong communication, organizational, and cross-functional collaboration skills
Ability to convert technical workflows into high-quality training and documentation
Preferred qualifications
Experience developing or validating autonomy software for aerial or ground robotics platforms
Familiarity with concept development, mission rehearsal, or operational planning
Experience creating and delivering technical training programs or enablement content
Background in defense, aviation, or high-assurance embedded systems environments

Responsibilities

Manage and mentor a team of 4–5 applications engineers focused on customer-aligned workflows and solutions
Lead cross-functional projects to build and maintain internal CONOPs that mirror real-world use of the SDK
Work hands-on with reference autonomy platforms (e.g., quadcopters, UAV, simulations) to validate system functionality
Act as the voice of the customer, turning field feedback into actionable insights for product and engineering teams
Collaborate across product, engineering, and GTM teams to ensure our tools and demos anticipate customer needs
Ensure internal validation and demonstration of features ahead of customer delivery
Oversee the development and rollout of advanced technical training courses and materials
Align demonstrations and training with the goal of enabling customers to achieve first deployment within 120 days
Celebrate and share learnings from customer successes, reinforcing the team’s contribution to fast and effective adoption
Track team performance, project milestones, and training delivery outcomes

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Autonomy EngineeringSDKUAVQuadcoptersSimulationsCONOPsTeam ManagementCross-functional Collaboration

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What are the required qualifications for the Manager, Autonomy Applications Engineering role?

Candidates need a Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field, plus 7+ years of industry experience including 2+ years in a customer-facing or autonomy-focused engineering role, 2+ years leading technical teams or projects, experience with autonomy platforms or robotic systems, and proficiency in C++ with working knowledge of Python.

What is the team size for this manager role?

You will manage and mentor a team of 4–5 applications engineers.

Is this a remote position or does it require working from an office?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What is the salary or compensation for this position?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What experience stands out for a strong application to this role?

Highlight 7+ years of industry experience with at least 2+ years in customer-facing or autonomy-focused roles, 2+ years leading teams, hands-on work with autonomy platforms like UAVs or simulations, and proficiency in C++ to demonstrate alignment with the leadership and technical demands.

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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