Shield AI
Staff Software Engineer, Autonomy Capabilities (R5368)
San Mateo, California · Staff · Full-time · Posted Sep 1, 2026
- Experience
- 7+ years' experience in one or more of: software sub-system scheduling and integration, behavior planning, task and resource allocation, motion planning, optimization, or flight controls.
- Education
- BS/MS/PhD in Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
About the job
Designs and delivers autonomy algorithms and software for unmanned platforms, from mission planning and multi-agent coordination through integration, testing, and deployment on real-world systems.
What you'll do
- Design, implement, and test tactical autonomy and behavior software for complex missions and multi-agent teams.
- Integrate autonomy capabilities with cross-functional teams; deploy and validate them through field tests and flight demonstrations.
- Analyze mission data, prototype new algorithms, and support autonomy roadmaps and defense program needs.
What they ask for
- BS/MS/PhD in Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
- Production-level C++ software development proficiency.
- Experience with collaborative software development tools for version control, issue tracking, code reviews, and release management.
- Eligible to obtain and maintain an active U.S. Secret security clearance.
Nice to have
- Experience with mission systems integration and hands-on integration events or flight demonstrations.
- Experience with robotic FOSS, simulation tools such as AFSIM or NGTS, or high-assurance software processes such as DO-178C.
Tools
C++, ROS, OMPL, AFSIM, NGTS, DO-178C
AI focus
Combines classical autonomy and machine learning, including reinforcement learning, for robust adaptive behavior; develops planning, decision-making, behavior execution, and multi-agent coordination capabilities.
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