Senior Engineer -- Autonomous Flight

f7d8749a-72d6-407c-bf98-292ea630c73a•San Diego, CA
•$158,400 - $237,600

About The Position

Shield AI is seeking a Senior Engineer with deep expertise in autonomous systems to design, implement, and optimize intelligent solutions for aerial and defense platforms. The role contributes to the development, integration, and continuous improvement of autonomous software and hardware for mission-critical applications. The engineer will work with multidisciplinary teams, stakeholders, and external partners to turn mission requirements into technical solutions, while supporting system reliability, security, performance, and data management standards in regulated defense environments. The role also includes mentoring junior engineers and advancing technical excellence.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, or a related technical field.
  • At least 8 years of experience developing autonomous systems, robotics, or embedded software for real-world applications.
  • Strong proficiency in C++, Python, ROS, or similar control and simulation frameworks.
  • Demonstrated leadership in developing, testing, and delivering autonomous or AI-driven platforms.
  • Experience with perception, navigation, sensor fusion, or real-time decision-making algorithms.
  • Excellent technical problem-solving and documentation skills.
  • Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate in cross-functional environments.

Nice To Haves

  • Experience with UAVs, UGVs, or similar autonomous vehicles in defense, aerospace, or related industries.
  • Familiarity with AI/ML integration for mission autonomy.
  • Knowledge of security and safety standards for embedded or autonomous platforms.
  • Defense industry experience or security clearance.

Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and deploy advanced autonomous software and embedded systems for aerial and defense platforms.
  • Lead or collaborate on integrating autonomy solutions with existing and new hardware, ensuring reliable performance in diverse and challenging environments.
  • Conduct system modeling, algorithm development, simulation, and on-platform testing for autonomy initiatives.
  • Work with multidisciplinary teams, stakeholders, and external partners to translate mission requirements into technical solutions.
  • Develop documentation, test procedures, and technical artifacts to support system certification and deployment.
  • Evaluate and incorporate emerging technologies, such as AI/ML, embedded vision, and real-time path planning, into core product offerings.
  • Mentor junior engineers and foster technical excellence within the team.
  • Ensure solutions align with security, performance, and data management standards, particularly in regulated defense environments.

Benefits

  • Competitive salary, bonuses, benefits, and equity for full-time regular employees.
  • Career growth and technical leadership in a mission-driven organization.
  • Comprehensive onboarding and continuous professional development.
  • Inclusive work environment embracing diversity and equal opportunity.
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