Mission Systems Engineering Intern - 2026 Summer Intern (R4070) at Shield AI

Dallas, Texas, United States

Shield AI Logo
Not SpecifiedCompensation
InternshipExperience Level
InternshipJob Type
UnknownVisa
Aerospace, Defense, Deep TechIndustries

Requirements

  • Undergraduate, graduate, or PhD student expected to graduate in December 2026 or Spring 2027
  • Background in Electrical Engineering

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-internship: 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 Systems EngineeringSystems Integration

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

Is this internship paid?

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

What is the duration of the internship?

The internship is a 10-week program designed for rising 2027 graduates.

What skills or experiences are needed for this Mission Systems Engineering Intern role?

The role involves reviewing interface control documentation (ICDs), assisting with hardware and software integration, performing bench-level testing, and supporting flight test preparation, suitable for students with relevant engineering background.

What is the company culture like for interns at Shield AI?

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

Who is eligible for this internship, and what makes a strong candidate?

It is targeted at rising 2027 graduates (Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 graduates), with interest in aerospace systems integration; strong candidates will gain hands-on experience in a full product development cycle 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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