Lead, Secure Communications Architect for Next-Gen Aircraft

The Rundown AI, Inc.; Dallas, Northern (TX, KY); Hybrid; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus

Benefits

Equity

Job summary

Shield AI in the United States seeks a Communications Systems Engineer to lead the design, integration, and optimization of advanced data links for next‑generation autonomous aircraft.

Responsibilities include RF, SATCOM, SDR, and encryption work, ensuring secure communications and low latency across airborne, ground, and satellite networks. Collaborate with avionics, software, and autonomy teams to deliver mission‑ready systems in contested environments.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
• 8+ years of experience in RF communications or mission systems integration for UAVs or military aircraft.
• Strong expertise in RF systems, SATCOM, Link‑16, CDL, and sensor integration.
• Proficiency in software‑defined radio (SDR) technologies and secure, encrypted data transmission.
• Experience writing specifications for communications subsystems and architectures.
• Knowledge of MIL‑STD‑1553, ARINC 429, and other aerospace data bus standards.
• Experience working with classified communication protocols and DoD compliance.
• Active Secret clearance and ability to obtain higher clearance.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and integration of data links, encryption, and secure communication architectures into the aircraft platform.
• Define system-level requirements and architectures for RF, SATCOM, optical, and software-defined radio (SDR) communication systems.
• Optimize low-latency, high-bandwidth data transfer and encryption to ensure mission-critical performance.
• Ensure seamless connectivity between the aircraft, command centers, and satellite networks.
• Develop AI-driven sensor fusion algorithms to enhance payload performance in high-threat environments.
• Collaborate with avionics, software, and autonomy teams for robust system integration.
• Validate performance through simulation, flight testing, and field deployments.

Skills

RF communications

SATCOM

Link-16

Data links

SDR

Encryption

System integration

DoD compliance

Security clearance

Education

Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering

Master's degree

Tools

MIL-STD-1553

ARINC 429

SDR technologies

Job description

Shield AI in the United States seeks a Communications Systems Engineer to lead the design, integration, and optimization of advanced data links for next‑generation autonomous aircraft.

Responsibilities include RF, SATCOM, SDR, and encryption work, ensuring secure communications and low latency across airborne, ground, and satellite networks. Collaborate with avionics, software, and autonomy teams to deliver mission‑ready systems in contested environments.