Flight Integration Engineer, Autonomous UAS

Shield AI; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 183,000 - 274,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity

Benefits

Job summary

Shield AI in San Diego, CA is seeking a Flight Integration Engineer to deploy autonomy software on unmanned aircraft, validating hardware and software integration in lab and field environments.

You will own pre-flight build, perform on-site flight tests, troubleshoot, and collaborate with autonomy, GNC, and systems teams. A SECRET clearance is preferred and travel is 30–40% of the year.

Qualifications

• BS/MS in CS/EE/AE or equivalent practical experience.
• 5–7+ years of related work experience with a degree, or as specified.
• Proficiency in C++ and Python with RTOS experience.
• Linux-based development and embedded systems familiarity.
• Knowledge of sensor integration, fusion, and middleware (ROS, DDS).
• Experience supporting flight demos or live exercises.
• Experience with simulators like AFSIM/NGTS.

Responsibilities

• System Integration & Deployment: merge autonomy software on unmanned aircraft across compute, sensors, and interfaces.
• Pre-flight Preparation: own build, config, validation for flight-ready systems and compatibility checks.
• On-site Flight Test Support: travel to test sites and support live flight operations under time-critical conditions.
• Hardware/Software Debugging: diagnose and resolve integration issues in lab and field.
• Flight Data Capture & Analysis: collect data and work with autonomy engineers to refine behavior.
• Collaboration Across Teams: coordinate with autonomy, GNC, systems, and test teams.
• Continuous Improvement: build tools to accelerate integration and improve reliability.
• Certification & Compliance: assist with documentation and validations for airworthiness.

Skills

C++

Python

RTOS

Linux

Embedded systems

ROS

DDS

Sensor fusion

System diagnostics

Education

BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical, Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering or equivalent

Tools

AFSIM

NGTS

Job description

Shield AI in San Diego, CA is seeking a Flight Integration Engineer to deploy autonomy software on unmanned aircraft, validating hardware and software integration in lab and field environments.

You will own pre-flight build, perform on-site flight tests, troubleshoot, and collaborate with autonomy, GNC, and systems teams. A SECRET clearance is preferred and travel is 30–40% of the year.