Staff Engineer, Simulation (R3990) (TX/SD/Bos) at Shield AI

California, United States

Shield AI Logo
Not SpecifiedCompensation
Senior (5 to 8 years)Experience Level
Full TimeJob Type
UnknownVisa
Aerospace, Robotics, DefenseIndustries

Requirements

  • BS or MS in Computer Science, Aerospace, Robotics, or related field
  • 8+ years of experience in software development, with emphasis on modern C++ (C++17 or later) and performance optimization
  • Proven experience developing or integrating simulation systems for robotics, aerospace, or autonomous systems
  • Strong grasp of real-time and deterministic software design, including multi-threading, synchronization, and memory management
  • Understanding of rigid-body dynamics, kinematics, and basic flight mechanics
  • Familiarity with DevOps-integrated simulation workflows, including CI/CD and containerized environments
  • Ability to debug complex build and runtime environments (CMake, dependency management, logging, profiling tools)
  • Strong collaboration and communication skills across software, hardware, and systems disciplines
  • Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with distributed or cloud-based simulation (e.g., cluster orchestration, Kubernetes)
  • Working knowledge of Python for data analysis, test automation, or simulation orchestration
  • Familiarity with sensor and actuator modeling, and integrating avionics or autonomy software within simulation

Responsibilities

  • Build and scale simulation frameworks for integrated testing of autonomy, GNC, and embedded systems in C++
  • Design deterministic, high-performance simulation tools capable of faster-than-real-time execution for development, testing, and release
  • Integrate core physics, dynamics, and system models (aerodynamics, propulsion, controls) into a unified simulation environment
  • Collaborate across autonomy, embedded, GNC, and test engineering to ensure the simulation mirrors real aircraft behavior and mission scenarios
  • Develop infrastructure for CI integration, parallel simulation execution, and automated regression testing
  • Profile, optimize, and validate C++ codebases for performance, determinism, and fidelity
  • Contribute to architecture decisions that define the next generation of aircraft simulation tools within Shield AI
  • Mentor engineers and guide best practices in C++, simulation architecture, and performance engineering

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

C++C++17Simulation FrameworksDeterministic SimulationPhysics ModelingAerodynamicsPropulsionGNCCI/CDAutomated TestingPerformance OptimizationRegression Testing

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What is the salary range for the Staff Engineer, Simulation position?

The salary range is $158,000 - $215,000.

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

This information is not specified in the job description.

What are the required skills for this role?

Required skills include 8+ years of software development with modern C++ (C++17 or later) and performance optimization, experience developing or integrating simulation systems for robotics, aerospace, or autonomous systems, strong grasp of real-time and deterministic software design including multi-threading and memory management, understanding of rigid-body dynamics, kinematics, and basic flight mechanics, and familiarity with DevOps-integrated simulation workflows.

What is the company culture like at Shield AI?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What makes a strong candidate for this Staff Simulation Engineer role?

A strong candidate will have a BS or MS in Computer Science, Aerospace, Robotics, or related field, plus preferred experience with distributed or cloud-based simulation, Python for data analysis or automation, and sensor/actuator modeling.

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.

Land your dream remote job 3x faster with AI