Staff Engineer, Software – Autonomous Aircraft Integration

About the role

Shield AI is seeking a Staff Engineer to lead software integration for autonomous unmanned aircraft. The role blends hardware, software, and systems engineering to deploy autonomy solutions, prepare flight‑ready systems, and troubleshoot mission‑critical issues in both lab and field environments.

Key responsibilities

• Integrate autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft, ensuring seamless operation across compute, sensors, and control interfaces.
• Own build, configuration, and validation processes for flight‑ready systems, coordinating hardware/software compatibility.
• Provide on‑site flight test support, including safety checks, system bring‑up, and rapid troubleshooting.
• Diagnose and resolve integration issues across complex software stacks and embedded systems.
• Capture and analyze flight data to refine autonomous behaviors.
• Collaborate with autonomy, GNC, systems, and test teams to deliver validated functionality.
• Develop tools and processes to improve integration timelines and test reliability.
• Assist with documentation and validation required for certification and airworthiness.

Required profile

• BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical, Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering or related field, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum 7 years of relevant experience (or 5 years with a Master’s, 4 years with a PhD).
• Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance.
• Willingness to travel 30‑40% of the year for test sites and integration events.

Required skills

• C++ programming.
• Python programming.
• Real‑time operating systems (RTOS).
• Linux‑based development and embedded systems.
• Shell scripting and system diagnostics.
• Sensor integration and sensor fusion.
• Middleware frameworks such as ROS and DDS.
• Simulation tools like AFSIM and NGTS.