Mission Systems Engineering Co-op (R4071) at Shield AI

Dallas, Texas, United States

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

InternshipExperience Level

InternshipJob Type

UnknownVisa

Aerospace, Defense, Deep TechIndustries

Requirements

Background in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related hardware disciplines
Demonstrated cross-functional experience (e.g., mechanical or electrical engineers with some exposure to software tools, or software students with hands-on hardware experience)
Familiarity with system integration, basic prototyping, and interpreting engineering documentation (e.g., schematics, wiring diagrams, or CAD)
Strong problem-solving abilities and a hands-on, iterative approach to engineering tasks

Responsibilities

Review interface control documentation (ICDs)
Assist with hardware and software integration for a secondary mission payload or utility interface on the V-BAT system
Perform bench-level testing
Support flight test preparation under close mentorship
Deliver mid-co-op: Documented interface requirements, wiring diagram updates, and test plan for payload integration
Deliver final: Validated hardware/software integration on bench or aircraft, along with a technical report summarizing design, testing, and outcomes

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Mission SystemsHardware IntegrationSoftware IntegrationBench TestingFlight Test PreparationInterface Control DocumentationICDsV-BATProduct Development

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

Is this position paid?

Yes, this is a paid 10-week internship program.

What is the duration of the internship?

The internship is a 10-week program during Summer 2026.

What skills or experiences will I gain from this co-op?

You will gain hands-on experience in avionics systems engineering, integration testing, reviewing interface control documentation, hardware and software integration, bench-level testing, and cross-functional collaboration.

What is the company culture like for interns?

The culture is innovative and mission-driven, offering hands-on mentorship, real contributions to projects, company-sponsored events, networking opportunities, and exposure to a high-growth tech unicorn environment.

Who is this co-op position best suited for?

It is ideal for Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 graduates pursuing careers in aerospace, robotics, or embedded systems, with interest in a full product development experience from design through validation.

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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