Autonomy Program Lead – Unmanned Systems

Speedrun Talent Network; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Job summary

Shield AI in Melbourne is looking for a Senior Manager, Autonomy to lead in-country teams delivering Hivemind autonomy solutions for unmanned systems. You will guide architecture, design, development, risk mitigation, and product quality, ensuring integration across aircraft from small UxS to large autonomous platforms.

The role emphasizes defense experience, leadership of 6–20 engineers, and collaboration with IRAD and government contracts.

Qualifications

• BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years of industry experience in autonomy and/or UxS platforms (defense tech)
• 7+ years delivering software into high-reliability production or certifiable environments
• 2+ years managing technical teams
• Deep proficiency in C++
• Understanding of GNC (controls, estimation, planning)
• Understanding of the full robotics stack (perception, estimation, planning, controls)
• Experience defining technical scope, requirements, architectures, ICDs, and system design docs
• Demonstrated problem-solving using a scientific approach
• Experience as a customer-facing engineering leader supporting defense and internal programs
• Experience contributing to government contract proposals
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Proven leadership of teams 6-20 engineers
• Fluent English and Mandarin

Responsibilities

• Lead teams across autonomy, integration, and testing with alignment of technical goals
• Shape autonomy architectures and advance Hivemind
• Define objectives, make engineering decisions, ensure deliverables’ quality
• Provide technical oversight across IRAD initiatives and government contracts

Skills

C++ proficiency

Leadership

Autonomy/UxS experience

GNC knowledge

Robotics stack

Communication skills

Defense contract experience

English & Mandarin

Customer-facing leadership

Proposal experience

Team management 6-20

Education

BS/MS in CS/EE/ME/Ae

Tools

ICDs

Job description

Shield AI in Melbourne is looking for a Senior Manager, Autonomy to lead in-country teams delivering Hivemind autonomy solutions for unmanned systems. You will guide architecture, design, development, risk mitigation, and product quality, ensuring integration across aircraft from small UxS to large autonomous platforms.

The role emphasizes defense experience, leadership of 6–20 engineers, and collaboration with IRAD and government contracts.