Autonomy Systems Engineer - Emerging Domains

Shield; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus

Benefits

Equity

Job summary

Shield AI in Arlington, VA is seeking an experienced Autonomous Systems Engineer to design, integrate, and field autonomy software for new platforms, including aerospace and maritime domains. You will work across platform teams to solve complex integration challenges and deliver mission-ready autonomy with end-to-end ownership from software-in-the-loop to live tests.

You should have 5+ years of relevant experience, strong C++ and Linux skills, and the ability to obtain a SECRET clearance.

Qualifications

• BS/MS in engineering or equivalent practical experience.
• Typically requires 5+ years of relevant experience.
• Strong proficiency in C++ and Linux-based development.
• Experience integrating embedded or real-time software systems.
• Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance.

Responsibilities

• Stand Up New Capabilities - establish autonomy on new platforms by integrating Shield AI capabilities with platform-specific software.
• Develop & Field Autonomy - implement autonomy software on emerging platforms with validation through software, hardware, vehicle, and live testing.
• Platform Team Partnerships - work with platform teams to validate interfaces and ensure hardware/software compatibility.
• Collaboration Across Teams & Partners - coordinate with Autonomy Capabilities, Perception, GCS teams and customer offices to deliver integrated autonomy solutions.
• Design & Documentation - contribute to design reviews, ICDs, integration planning, and post-mortems.
• Pre-deployment Preparation - build, configure, validate, and prepare mission-ready systems.
• On-site Test & Mission Support - support flight tests, trials, demonstrations, and exercises.
• Hardware/Software Debugging - diagnose issues across autonomy software and embedded systems.
• Mission Data & Debrief Support - capture data and drive rapid improvements from debriefs.
• Continuous Improvement - develop tools and processes to improve velocity and readiness.
• C2 Interoperability & Standards - implement interfaces with command-and-control systems.
• Travel Requirement - 10-20% of the year to various locations.

Skills

C++

Linux

Embedded systems

Systems engineering

Problem-solving

Education

BS/MS in engineering

Tools

Python

Docker

CI/CD

Job description

Shield AI in Arlington, VA is seeking an experienced Autonomous Systems Engineer to design, integrate, and field autonomy software for new platforms, including aerospace and maritime domains. You will work across platform teams to solve complex integration challenges and deliver mission-ready autonomy with end-to-end ownership from software-in-the-loop to live tests.

You should have 5+ years of relevant experience, strong C++ and Linux skills, and the ability to obtain a SECRET clearance.