Shield AI
Staff Software Engineer, Autonomy Capabilities – Space (R5368)
Boston, Massachusetts · Staff · Full-time · Posted Sep 17, 2026
- Experience
- Typically 7 years with a Bachelor’s degree; 6 years with a Master’s; 4 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
Leads the development, integration, and deployment of autonomy software for space vehicles, satellites, and missile defense missions.
What you'll do
- Lead technical delivery of autonomy capabilities, including distributed optimization, tasking and scheduling, target assignment, motion planning, and cooperative behaviors.
- Develop and test high-performance software, integrate it with real-world platforms, and support deployment and mission-log analysis.
- Guide technical approaches and roadmaps while collaborating with cross-functional teams and customers.
What they ask for
- BS/MS in a listed or similar engineering/computer science field, or equivalent practical experience.
- Typically 7 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree, 6 years with a Master’s, 4 years with a PhD, or equivalent work experience.
- Proficiency in C++ and Python; familiarity with RTOS; significant experience in relevant robotics/autonomy areas, unmanned systems, and simulation tools.
- Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance or higher.
Nice to have
- Experience across multiple aerospace domains and methodologies spanning classical control, optimization, and applied ML/RL.
- Background in swarm robotics, government programs, or hands-on integration events, demos, or live exercises.
Tools
C++, Python, RTOS, AFSIM, NGTS
AI focus
Develops autonomy capabilities using optimization, planning, control, tactical behaviors, and distributed decision-making; applied ML/RL is preferred experience.
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