Senior Software Engineer, Autonomous Pilot Integration – Expeditionary (R5208)

About the role

Shield AI is seeking a senior software engineer to design, develop, and field autonomy software for its expeditionary unmanned aircraft platforms, V‑BAT and the upcoming X‑BAT. The role combines hands‑on software development, hardware integration, and close collaboration with aircraft, perception and command‑and‑control teams to deliver mission‑ready capabilities for defense customers.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and field autonomy software for V‑BAT and X‑BAT, including mission behaviors, platform‑specific control, payload and sensor integration, multi‑agent coordination and executive autonomy.
• Partner with the Aircraft team and cross‑functional groups to validate interfaces, ensure hardware/software compatibility and support release readiness.
• Lead technical execution of major features, mentor teammates, drive design reviews and integration planning.
• Prepare, configure and validate mission‑ready systems for deployment, and provide on‑site test and mission support during flight tests and customer demonstrations.

Required profile

• BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical, Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering or equivalent practical experience.
• 5+ years of experience in C++ development for real‑time or embedded systems.
• Strong experience with Linux‑based development and embedded hardware.
• Ability to obtain a SECRET security clearance.

Required skills

• C++ development in real‑time/embedded environments.
• Linux system development and debugging.
• Integration of complex software across hardware/software boundaries.
• Python, Docker, CMake/Conan and CI/CD pipelines.