Staff Engineer, Systems Test (R4151) at Shield AI

Dallas, Texas, United States

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

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

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Aerospace, Defense, Autonomous SystemsIndustries

Requirements

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, Aerospace Engineering, or related technical discipline
8+ years of experience in system integration, test planning, and validation of complex systems—ideally within robotics, aerospace, or autonomy
Proven expertise in test planning, including test plan creation, test case design, and validation tracking and software quality release processes
Deep understanding of test infrastructure, automation, and validation methodologies
Strong proficiency in Python for scripting, automation, and analysis; working knowledge of C++ preferred
Experience architecting and maintaining Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL), Vehicle-in-the-Loop (VIL), or similar real-time test systems
Proven ability to troubleshoot (inferred from context of hands-on debugging and real-time troubleshooting)

Responsibilities

Lead system-level integration, test planning, and validation for advanced autonomous aircraft systems
Define and implement test architectures, methodologies, and strategies across simulation, HIL, VIL, and flight environments
Own and manage comprehensive test plans, defining objectives, success criteria, procedures, and resource needs
Architect and evolve test infrastructure and automation frameworks that enable scalable and repeatable validation
Define Hivemind Software test release processes and quality release gates
Collaborate closely with software, hardware, and systems engineering teams to ensure robust integration and system readiness
Conduct hands-on debugging and validation of autonomy, avionics, and control systems
Lead flight test preparation, system configuration, and real-time troubleshooting during live events
Develop tools and utilities in Python (and optionally C++) to support automation, data analysis, and telemetry validation
Establish test documentation standards, ensuring traceability, repeatability, and knowledge sharing across teams
Mentor and provide technical direction to junior and senior engineers, fostering a culture of technical rigor and continuous improvement
Partner with program and mission teams to communicate test readiness, progress, and system performance effectively

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Systems IntegrationTest PlanningHardware-in-the-LoopVehicle-in-the-LoopFlight TestingTest AutomationAutonomy SystemsSimulationSoftware IntegrationSystems Engineering

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

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

The role is based in Frisco, TX, indicating an on-site requirement for integration and test activities.

What technical skills are required for this Staff Engineer role?

Key skills include leading system-level integration and test planning for autonomous systems, architecting test infrastructure and automation frameworks, hands-on debugging of autonomy and avionics, and developing tools in Python (optionally C++). Experience across simulation, HIL, VIL, and flight environments is essential.

What is the salary or compensation for this position?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What is the company culture like at Shield AI?

Shield AI has a mission-driven culture with a sense of urgency, commitment to protecting those who serve, and a fast-paced, evolving environment that values adaptability, growth mindset, and collaboration.

What makes a strong candidate for this Staff Engineer position?

Ideal candidates demonstrate adaptability, a growth mindset, willingness to learn new technologies quickly, senior technical leadership, hands-on experience, and the ability to mentor teammates in a rapidly scaling company.

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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