Senior Systems Engineer – Autonomous UAS

About the role

Shield AI is seeking a Senior Systems Engineer to lead the design, development, and integration of next‑generation autonomous aircraft systems for national defense. You will own system architecture and ensure seamless integration of avionics, autonomy, propulsion, sensors, and mission‑critical functions.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and refine system architecture for the next‑gen UAS, integrating avionics, autonomy, propulsion, sensor payloads, and mission systems.
• Define and document system‑level behavior, modes, states, transitions, and fault responses, supporting safety analyses such as FHA, FMEA, and FTA.
• Establish top‑level requirements, decompose them into subsystems, and maintain traceability throughout the development lifecycle.
• Collaborate with autonomy and software teams to embed AI‑driven flight control, decision‑making, and mission execution capabilities.
• Utilize MBSE tools (SysML, DOORS, CAMEO) to create digital models, conduct trade studies, and optimize performance.
• Conduct risk assessments and trade studies to evaluate design alternatives and mitigate technical risks.
• Engage with DoD stakeholders, industry partners, and government agencies to align system capabilities with operational needs.
• Partner with hardware, propulsion, flight operations, and software teams to drive rapid, integrated development cycles.

Required profile

• 5+ years of systems engineering experience in aerospace, defense, or autonomous aircraft.
• Proven ability to define system behavior logic, operational modes, and safety analyses.
• Deep expertise in system architecture, avionics integration, and autonomy‑driven flight systems.
• Experience with Group 4 or Group 5 UAS, military aircraft, or autonomous airborne platforms.
• Strong background in flight testing, system integration, and performance validation.
• Knowledge of DoD acquisition processes, MIL‑STDs, FAA airworthiness certification, and airborne system safety standards.
• Demonstrated leadership of cross‑functional teams and delivery of complex projects.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, agile environment and obtain a S//SAR‑level security clearance.

Required skills

• Model‑Based Systems Engineering (MBSE)
• SysML
• DOORS
• CAMEO
• Group 4 UAS
• Group 5 UAS
• Flight testing
• System integration
• MIL‑STD compliance
• FAA airworthiness certification