Senior Manager, Software - Autonomous Aircraft Integration (R3774) at Shield AI

United States

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

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

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Defense, AerospaceIndustries

Requirements

BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or similar degree, or equivalent practical experience
Typically requires a minimum of 10 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 9 years with a Master’s degree; or 7 years with a PhD; or equivalent work experience
7+ years of experience in Unmanned Systems programs in the DoD or applied R&D
2+ years of people management experience (inferred from incomplete "2+ years of peo")

Responsibilities

Lead multidisciplinary teams across autonomy, integration, and testing by aligning technical efforts, resolving cross-functional challenges, and driving mission-focused execution; balance hands-on technical oversight with performance optimization, innovation, and clear stakeholder communication
Integrate autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft systems, ensuring seamless operation across onboard compute, sensors, and control interfaces
Own the build, configuration, and validation process for flight-ready systems; coordinate hardware/software compatibility and mission readiness
Provide on-site flight test support, including travel to test sites for live flight operations, safety checks, system bring-up, and troubleshooting under time-critical constraints
Diagnose and resolve integration issues across complex autonomy software stacks and embedded systems in lab and field environments
Manage flight data capture during missions and post-test analysis, working with autonomy engineers to refine behaviors and identify improvements
Collaborate closely with autonomy, GNC, systems, and test teams to ensure mission-critical functionality is delivered on time and validated thoroughly
Build tools and processes to improve integration timelines, flight test reliability, and team efficiency across deployment cycles
Support certification and compliance by assisting with documentation and system-level validation required for certification, airworthiness, and compliance in defense-relevant environments
Travel around 30-40% of the year to different office locations, customer sites, and flight integration events

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Autonomy IntegrationSystems EngineeringSoftware IntegrationUnmanned AircraftFlight TestingHardware IntegrationTroubleshootingDoD PlatformsTeam LeadershipMission Execution

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What locations does Shield AI have offices in?

Shield AI has offices in San Diego, Dallas, Washington, D.C., Boston, Abu Dhabi (UAE), Kyiv (Ukraine), and Melbourne (Australia).

Is this a remote position or does it require travel?

The role requires travel to test sites for on-site flight test support, including live flight operations, safety checks, and troubleshooting.

What are the key responsibilities of this role?

Responsibilities include leading multidisciplinary teams, integrating autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft, pre-flight preparation, on-site flight test support, hardware/software debugging, flight data analysis, and collaboration across teams.

What skills and experience are needed for this position?

The role requires skills in solving complex integration challenges spanning hardware, software, and systems engineering, deploying autonomy solutions onto unmanned platforms, hands-on experience in lab and field environments, strong systems thinking, and the ability to operate in fast-paced test conditions.

What makes a strong candidate for this Senior Manager role?

A strong candidate thrives on complex integration challenges, has hands-on experience deploying autonomy on unmanned platforms, excels in multidisciplinary team leadership, and can handle dynamic, fast-paced field testing environments.

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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