Senior Staff Software Engineer – Autonomous Pilot Integration (Expeditionary)

About the role

Shield AI is seeking a senior leader to own the technical direction of the Expeditionary autonomy portfolio, driving architecture evolution for V‑BAT, X‑BAT and future platforms while delivering mission‑ready solutions for defense customers.

Key responsibilities

• Define and drive long‑term technical strategy for Expeditionary autonomy across V‑BAT, X‑BAT and future platforms.
• Guide development and fielding of mission autonomy, payload integration, flight‑autonomy interfaces and multi‑agent capabilities.
• Partner with the Aircraft team to evolve platform integration and ensure mission readiness.
• Lead architecture reviews, set engineering standards and influence cross‑team technical decisions.
• Mentor senior engineers, shape hiring criteria and contribute to organizational growth.

Required profile

• BS/MS in an engineering discipline or equivalent experience.
• 10+ years of relevant experience with expert‑level C++ and Linux systems development.
• Proven ability to define technical strategy and solve complex systems‑integration challenges.
• Eligibility to obtain a SECRET clearance.

Required skills

• C++ programming.
• Linux systems development.
• Experience with Group 3 UAS or VTOL autonomous platforms.
• Design of flight‑autonomy interfaces and autopilot integration.
• Knowledge of open‑systems standards such as STANAG 4586, UCI and OMS.