Lead Networking and OS Engineering for Autonomous UAVs

Shield; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 195,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

Shield AI is seeking an Engineering Manager (Networking & OS) for V-BAT to lead a team designing and implementing network infrastructure for our UAS in challenging environments. This hands-on leadership role splits time roughly 50/50 between people leadership and direct technical contributions.

You will drive robust Layer 2/3 networking, embedded Linux networking, and secure, low-latency communications over constrained radio and satellite links, collaborating with software, hardware, and field

Qualifications

• 8+ years developing network or OS software for critical systems.
• 3+ years leading software engineering teams.
• BS or MS in CS, Aerospace Eng, Electrical Eng, Robotics, or related field.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to navigate competing priorities with cross-functional stakeholders.
• Proficiency in production-grade C, C++, or Python under Linux.
• Experience shipping software that interacts with the Linux networking stack.
• Deep understanding of Linux networking and Layer 2/3 fundamentals.
• Experience with netlink, iptables/nftables, TUN/TAP, namespaces, sockets, VPNs.
• Proven ability to lead reliable software delivery.
• Hands-on troubleshooting in lossy/high-latency environments.
• Proficiency with tcpdump, Wireshark, iproute2, iperf.
• Ability to obtain security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a team of networking & OS engineers, owning planning, execution, coaching, and performance management.
• Work backward from operator capabilities to deliver bandwidth-optimized, low-latency communication over constrained links.
• Develop resilient Layer 2 / Layer 3 network topologies and embedded Linux networking capabilities.
• Partner with software, hardware, field operators, and program stakeholders to align priorities and validate end-to-end performance.
• Establish and uphold engineering standards for code quality, testing, reliability, and delivery.

Skills

Networking & OS development

Team leadership

C/C++/Python

Linux networking

Network troubleshooting

Education

BS or MS in CS/EE/Robotics

Tools

tcpdump/Wireshark

Job description

Shield AI is seeking an Engineering Manager (Networking & OS) for V-BAT to lead a team designing and implementing network infrastructure for our UAS in challenging environments. This hands-on leadership role splits time roughly 50/50 between people leadership and direct technical contributions.

You will drive robust Layer 2/3 networking, embedded Linux networking, and secure, low-latency communications over constrained radio and satellite links, collaborating with software, hardware, and field