Chief Autonomy Architect — Defense Systems

Shieldai; Greater London; On-site; GBP 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Shield AI in London is seeking a Chief Engineer to solve complex technical challenges and deploy advanced autonomy on unmanned weapon systems. You will lead the Hivemind Autonomy program, define objectives, and ensure high-quality deliverables across defense contracts.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in autonomy or defense tech, 7+ years shipping production software, and proven leadership of mid-to-large engineering teams. Strong communication and proposal-writing skills are essential.

Qualifications

• BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering, or similar degree.
• 10+ years of industry experience in autonomy and/or unmanned weapon systems.
• 7+ years delivering software into production/certifiable environments with high reliability.
• Understanding of guidance, navigation, and control (GNC).
• Understanding of the robotics stack (controls, estimation, perception, planning).
• Understanding of software development processes and how to effectively deploy software.
• Experience defining technical scope and managing technical requirements, product architectures, ICDs, and other system-level design documentation.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills through a scientific and technical approach.
• Customer-facing engineering leadership supporting defense and internally funded development programs.
• Ability to contribute to government contract proposal writing.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the Chief Engineer on Shield AI projects focused on developing and deploying autonomy solutions for unmanned weapon systems.
• Lead a team responsible for advancing Hivemind Autonomy and shaping defense autonomy architectures.
• Define and assign technical objectives, make key engineering decisions, and ensure the quality and completeness of all technical deliverables.
• Provide technical leadership and oversight across IRAD initiatives and defense contracts.

Skills

Technical leadership

Communication skills

Leadership of 6–20 engineers

Problem solving

Proposal writing

UK security clearance

Education

BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering, and/or similar degree

Job description

Shield AI in London is seeking a Chief Engineer to solve complex technical challenges and deploy advanced autonomy on unmanned weapon systems. You will lead the Hivemind Autonomy program, define objectives, and ensure high-quality deliverables across defense contracts.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in autonomy or defense tech, 7+ years shipping production software, and proven leadership of mid-to-large engineering teams. Strong communication and proposal-writing skills are essential.