Senior Staff Software Engineer – Autonomous Pilot Integration

About the role

Shield AI is seeking a senior staff software engineer to lead the Autonomous Pilot Integration team for Emerging Domains. The role will define technical direction for autonomy on new platforms such as space, maritime, and contested logistics, turning early‑stage R&D into scalable programs.

Key responsibilities

• Define technical strategy and architecture for autonomy on brand‑new platforms and mission areas.
• Lead engineering through ambiguous requirements, shifting priorities, and evolving customer needs.
• Guide development, integration, and fielding of autonomy capabilities across space, maritime, and logistics domains.
• Partner with platform teams, influence interface evolution, and drive C2 interoperability standards.
• Lead architecture reviews, documentation, ICDs, and release readiness for multiple emerging programs.
• Provide senior technical leadership during test flights, demonstrations, and customer events.
• Mentor senior engineers, help set hiring standards, and grow technical talent.
• Travel 10–20% of the year to customer sites, training events, and integration exercises.

Required profile

• BS/MS in an engineering discipline or equivalent experience, with 10+ years of relevant work.
• Expert‑level C++ development on Linux systems.
• Proven experience defining technical strategy across multiple programs or organizations.
• Track record solving complex systems‑integration challenges in ambiguous environments.
• Ability to obtain a SECRET security clearance.

Required skills

• C++
• Linux systems development