Senior Staff Engineer, Software - Perception (R3771) at Shield AI

United States

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

Senior (5 to 8 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
Background in implementing algorithms such as Kalman Filters, multi-target tracking, or deep learning-based detection models
Familiarity with fusing data from radar, EO/IR cameras, or other sensors

Responsibilities

Develop advanced perception algorithms — Design and implement robust algorithms for object detection, classification, and multi-target tracking across diverse sensor modalities
Implement sensor fusion frameworks — Integrate data from vision systems, radars, and other mission sensors using probabilistic and deterministic fusion techniques to generate accurate situational awareness
Develop state estimation capabilities — Design and refine algorithms for localization and pose estimation using IMU, GPS, vision, and other onboard sensing inputs to enable stable and accurate navigation
Analyze and utilize sensor ICDs — Interpret interface control documents (ICDs) and technical specifications for aircraft-mounted sensors to ensure correct data handling, interpretation, and synchronization
Optimize perception performance — Tune and evaluate perception pipelines for performance, robustness, and real-time efficiency in both simulation and real-world environments
Support autonomy integration — Work closely with autonomy, systems, and integration teams to interface perception outputs with planning, behaviors, and decision-making modules
Validate in simulated and operational settings — Leverage synthetic data, simulation environments, and field testing to validate algorithm accuracy and mission readiness
Collaborate with hardware and sensor teams — Ensure seamless integration of perception algorithms with onboard compute platforms and diverse sensor payloads
Drive innovation in airborne sensing — Contribute novel ideas and state-of-the-art techniques to advance real-time perception capabilities for unmanned aircraft operating in complex, GPS-denied, or contested environments
Travel Requirement – Members of this team typically travel around 10-15% of the year (to different office locations, customer sites, and flight integration events)

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Object DetectionSensor FusionState EstimationEO/IR CamerasRadarsIMUsMulti-Target TrackingProbabilistic FusionDeterministic FusionReal-Time AlgorithmsAirborne SensingAutonomy Software

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What are the main responsibilities of this Senior Staff Engineer role?

The role involves developing advanced perception algorithms for object detection, classification, and tracking; implementing sensor fusion frameworks; developing state estimation capabilities; optimizing performance; and collaborating with teams for integration and validation.

What skills are required for the Perception Engineer position?

Candidates need strong algorithmic thinking, deep familiarity with airborne sensing systems like EO/IR cameras, radars, and IMUs, experience with real-time object detection, sensor fusion, state estimation, and delivering performant software in simulation and real-world conditions.

Is this position remote 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 role?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What kind of candidate thrives in this role at Shield AI?

An ideal candidate thrives on building advanced perception systems for autonomous aircraft in complex environments, with skills in algorithmic development, sensor integration, and delivering robust software under real-world constraints.

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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