Staff Engineer, Software - Autonomous Aircraft Integration (R3775) at Shield AI

Boston, Massachusetts, 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 7 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 5 years with a Master’s degree; or 4 years with a PhD; or equivalent work experience
Proficiency in programming languages such as C++ and Python, and familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS)
Proficiency in Linux-based development and experience working with embedded systems, shell scripting, and system diagnostics
Knowledge of sensor integration, sensor fusion, and middleware frameworks (e.g., ROS, DDS)
Hands-on experience supporting flight demos or live exercises
Experience with simulation tools and environments (e.g., AFSIM, NGTS) for testing and validation
Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot

Responsibilities

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
Travel to test sites and support live flight operations, including 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 data collection during missions and post-test analysis, working with autonomy engineers to refine behaviors and identify improvements
Work 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
Assist 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 SoftwareSystem IntegrationUnmanned Aircraft SystemsSensorsControl InterfacesFlight TestingHardware ConfigurationSoftware DeploymentSystems Engineering

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What are the main responsibilities of this Staff Engineer role?

The role involves system integration and deployment of autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft, pre-flight preparation, on-site flight test support with travel, hardware/software debugging, flight data capture and analysis, collaboration across teams, continuous improvement, and supporting certification and compliance.

Is travel required for this position?

Yes, members of this team typically travel around 30-40% of the year to test sites for flight operations support.

What skills are needed to succeed in this role?

Success requires skills in solving complex integration challenges spanning hardware, software, and systems engineering, deploying autonomy solutions onto unmanned platforms, hands-on experience with pre-flight preparation and troubleshooting in lab and field environments, and strong systems thinking in fast-paced conditions.

What is the company culture like at Shield AI?

The environment is highly dynamic and fast-paced, focused on developing cutting-edge autonomy for defense applications, with close collaboration across autonomy, GNC, systems, and test teams to bridge R&D and deployment.

What makes a strong candidate for this position?

A strong candidate thrives on complex integration challenges, has hands-on experience deploying autonomy on unmanned platforms, excels in troubleshooting mission-critical issues in lab and field settings, and demonstrates strong systems thinking in fast-paced 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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