XBAT Software Test Engineer (R3696) at Shield AI

Dallas, Texas, United States

Shield AI Logo
Not SpecifiedCompensation
Senior (5 to 8 years)Experience Level
Full TimeJob Type
UnknownVisa
Defense, AerospaceIndustries

Requirements

  • 7+ years' experience in system/software test engineering, including 3+ years with aerospace, defense, or autonomous vehicle platforms
  • Demonstrated track record of success in system-level testing and release efforts for complex, safety-critical platforms (preferably Group 5 UAS or equivalent)
  • Excellent proficiency in automating test infrastructure using Python, C++, and other modern tools and approaches
  • Very strong experience building and using simulation and hardware-in-the-loop capabilities for automated integration testing and continuous validation
  • Excellent understanding of requirements validation and traceability processes - ideally with experience building tools to automate and control processes
  • Working knowledge of aerospace verification standards (e.g., DO-178C) and/or airworthiness, safety case, or certification-aligned testing
  • Ability to work independently in fast-paced, ambiguous environments while collaborating across multiple disciplines - evidence of success thriving in these environments
  • Preferred Qualifications
  • Direct experience supporting or leading flight test campaigns and airborne software releases
  • Hands-on experience with simulation frameworks, mission scenario scripting, or real-time test systems
  • Experience building tools for requirements-traceability, test coverage analysis, defect tracking, or test

Responsibilities

  • Own end-to-end system test strategy for software-in-the-loop (SIL), hardware-in-the-loop (HIL), and vehicle-in-the-loop (VIL) environments—scaling them for continuous integration and rapid release cycles
  • Design and implement mission-critical system test cases validating autonomous behaviors, requirements compliance, and operational edge cases across nominal, safety-critical, and degraded conditions
  • Coordinate and execute flight test and software release campaigns, working cross-functionally with autonomy, embedded systems, flight ops, and safety engineering teams
  • Develop and maintain tooling for requirements-test traceability, test result reporting, and release qualification to meet both internal and external safety standards
  • Drive system-level integration testing workflows, including regression, performance, fault injection, and safety-critical operational scenarios
  • Mentor junior engineers in best practices for high-assurance system verification, aircraft software development, and rigorous test design

Skills

SIL
HIL
VIL
Automated Testing
Continuous Integration
Autonomy Software
Avionics Software
System Testing
Verification and Validation
Simulation

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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