Chief Engineer - UAS Systems & Flight Autonomy

AI Chopping Block; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Shield AI seeks a Chief Engineer to lead all engineering efforts for the Group 3 UAS program. The role directs a high-performing multidisciplinary team responsible for flight software, autonomy, ground control, aircraft, and payloads deployed worldwide.

This foundational leadership position requires deep technical breadth across aerospace disciplines and a proven ability to build scalable organizations in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 15 years of related experience required.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field.
• Strong technical background in aerospace, mechanical, electrical engineering or avionics and propulsion.
• Experience leading multidisciplinary teams across hardware, software and systems.
• Proven track record of shipping products in fast-paced environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead the engineering and software team for the Group 3 UAS program, defining vision and architecture.
• Establish engineering standards, governance, configuration management, and modern DevOps practices.
• Mentor Directors, engineering managers, and technical leads to support scaling and longevity.
• Interface with senior leadership, partners, customers, and government stakeholders to report progress and make strategic decisions.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Strategy & Planning

Cross-functional leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

Job description

Shield AI seeks a Chief Engineer to lead all engineering efforts for the Group 3 UAS program. The role directs a high-performing multidisciplinary team responsible for flight software, autonomy, ground control, aircraft, and payloads deployed worldwide.

This foundational leadership position requires deep technical breadth across aerospace disciplines and a proven ability to build scalable organizations in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.