Shield AI

Senior Software Engineer, Autonomous Pilot Integration – Weapons (R5427)

$163K–$245K

Washington, D.C. +3 · On-site · Senior · Full-time · Posted Jul 21, 2026

Location: Washington, D.C.
San Diego, California
Boston, Massachusetts
Dallas, Texas
Experience: Typically 5+ years of relevant experience, or equivalent advanced degree experience.
Education: BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.

About the job

Develops, integrates, tests, and deploys autonomy software for launched-effects platforms, from simulation through live flight operations.

Develop and field autonomy capabilities, including embedded software, autopilot integration, and multi-agent coordination.
Lead feature or subsystem execution and collaborate with engineering teams, vendors, and customers on integrated systems.
Prepare and debug mission-ready systems; support testing, flight operations, and deployment, including travel to test sites.

Strong proficiency in C++ and experience developing or integrating real-time or embedded systems.
Experience with Linux-based development and embedded systems, complex software/hardware integration, and system integration, testing, or field events.
Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance.
BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.

Experience with launched effects, unmanned systems, autonomous platforms, autopilot stacks, or multi-agent autonomy.
Python, Docker, CMake/Conan, CI/CD, or military field exercise/defense customer experience.

USD 163,200–244,800 per year base salary

C++, Linux, PX4, ArduPilot, Python, Docker, CMake/Conan, CI/CD

Develops and integrates autonomy software, including mission behaviors, platform-specific control, multi-agent coordination, and executive autonomy.

Model-written summary · the original posting is authoritative