Shield AI
Staff Software Engineer, Autonomy Capabilities – Space (R5368)
$188K–$281K
Boston, Massachusetts +3 · On-site · Staff · Full-time · Posted Aug 5, 2026
- Location
- Boston, Massachusetts
Washington, D.C.
San Diego, California
Dallas, Texas - Experience
- Typically 7 years with a Bachelor’s degree; 6 years with a Master’s degree; 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 development and integration of autonomy software for satellites and missile defense, including optimization, tasking, planning, and track fusion.
What you'll do
- Lead technical delivery of autonomy capabilities, shaping requirements and guiding technical execution.
- Develop, test, and integrate high-performance autonomy software with real space vehicles; support mission-log analysis and deployment testing.
- Research and prototype algorithms, contribute to autonomy roadmaps, and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
What they ask for
- BS/MS in a listed or similar engineering/computer-science field, or equivalent practical experience.
- Typically 7 years related experience with a Bachelor’s degree, 6 years with a Master’s degree, 4 years with a PhD, or equivalent work experience.
- Proficiency in C++ and Python, familiarity with RTOS, and significant experience in relevant robotics areas and unmanned systems.
- Experience with simulation tools such as AFSIM or NGTS; ability to obtain a SECRET clearance or higher.
Nice to have
- Experience across multiple aerospace domains, or with classical control, optimization, and applied ML/RL.
- Background in swarm robotics or collaborative behaviors; familiarity with DoD/government programs or hands-on integration events.
Pay
USD 187,531–281,297 (per-year-salary) (base salary)
Tools
C++, Python, RTOS, AFSIM, NGTS
AI focus
Develops autonomy algorithms for distributed decision-making, task allocation and scheduling, weapons target assignment, motion planning, tactical behaviors, and information-aware planning for space systems.
Model-written summary · the original posting is authoritative