Shield AI
Senior Engineer, Software - Autonomous Aircraft Integration (R5200)
Washington, D.C. · Senior · Full-time · Posted Oct 20, 2026
- Experience
- Typically 5 years related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 4 years and a Master’s degree; or 2 years with a PhD; or equivalent work experience.
- Education
- BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, and/or similar degree, or equivalent practical experience.
About the job
Integrates and deploys autonomy software on unmanned aircraft, prepares systems for flight, and supports flight testing, troubleshooting, and validation.
What you'll do
- Integrate autonomy software with aircraft compute, sensors, and control interfaces; build and validate flight-ready systems.
- Support on-site flight operations, troubleshoot hardware/software issues, and collect and analyze flight data.
- Coordinate with engineering and test teams and improve integration processes; assist with certification and compliance documentation.
What they ask for
- Degree in a relevant field or equivalent practical experience.
- Programming proficiency in C++ and Python; familiarity with RTOS, Linux development, embedded systems, shell scripting, and diagnostics.
- Knowledge of sensor integration, sensor fusion, and middleware frameworks; hands-on support of flight demos or live exercises; experience with simulation tools.
- Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance.
Nice to have
- Direct experience with unmanned aerial systems or flight test campaigns; familiarity with autonomy stacks, flight controls, or GNC.
- Experience with UCI and OMS Standards.
Tools
C++, Python, RTOS, Linux, ROS, DDS, AFSIM, NGTS
AI focus
Deploys and validates autonomy software for unmanned aircraft and analyzes flight data to refine autonomous behaviors.
Model-written summary · the original posting is authoritative