Manager, Autonomy Capabilities

Shield; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 229,000 - 344,000; Full time

Job summary

Shield AI is seeking an experienced Autonomy Engineer to lead teams across autonomy, integration, and testing for aerospace and robotic systems. You will write autonomous behaviors for VTOL and fixed-wing platforms, mentor engineers, and align cross-functional efforts to deliver mission-focused solutions.

The role requires a strong background in autonomy algorithms, sensing, planning, and data fusion, with proven leadership and the ability to work in a multidisciplinary environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in CS/EE/Aerospace/Robotics; Master’s preferred.
• 10+ years in autonomy algorithms in robotics, aerospace, or defense.
• 2+ years leading technical teams.
• Proficiency in C++ and Python; RTOS familiarity.
• Experience with sensing, estimation, path planning, and data fusion.
• Experience with unmanned system technologies (air domain).
• Experience with simulation tools (AFSIM, NGTS).
• Ability to obtain SECRET clearance.

Responsibilities

• Lead teams across autonomy, integration, and testing; align efforts and drive mission-focused execution.
• Write autonomous behaviors for varying aircraft platforms (VTOL and Fixed Wing).
• Collaborate with engineers to architect solutions, set software standards, and mentor others.
• Integrate Shield AI autonomy products with third-party systems.

Skills

Leadership

C++

Python

RTOS

Autonomy algorithms

Robotics sensing

Path planning

Data fusion

Unmanned systems

Simulation tools

Education

Bachelor's in CS/EE/Aerospace/Robotics

Tools

AFSIM

NGTS

Job description

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BATaircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube.

This position is perfect for an individual who enjoys solving the most complex problems across a portfolio of diverse domains and modalities. An ideal candidate is expected to apply classical autonomous techniques, algorithms, and theory to various platforms in multiple tactical scenarios. These solutions are expected to be integrated into real-world problems with near-term program impacts and rewards. In this role, you will manage a technical team supporting the development, testing, and analysis of autonomy algorithms for advanced aerospace, defense, and robotic systems.

Shield AI is looking to continue to push the envelope by teaming traditional autonomous systems algorithms and deep reinforcement learning-based solutions to create an unmatched capability and speed to deployment technology base.

What You’ll Do:

• Multidisciplinary Team Leadership: Lead teams across autonomy, integration, and testing by aligning technical efforts, resolving cross-functional challenges, and driving mission-focused execution. Balance hands-on technical oversight with performance optimization, innovation, and clear stakeholder communication.
• Autonomy Development: As an Autonomy Engineer on this team, you will lead teams at the intersection of artificial intelligence, task & motion planning, and controls. Write autonomous behaviors for varying aircraft platforms (i.e., VTOL and Fixed Wing)
• Collaboration: You will work closely with talented engineers to architect solutions, set standards for software engineering, drive strategic technical improvements, and mentor other engineers. Work with Subject Matter Experts to understand customer needs and implement appropriate autonomy solutions
• System Integration: Integrate Shield AI autonomy products together with third party systems

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Robotics, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• 10+ years of experience developing and integrating autonomy algorithms in robotics, aerospace, or defense systems.
• 2+ years managing technical teams.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as C++ and Python, and familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS).
• Significant background in robotics technologies related to sensing, estimation, path planning, and data fusion.
• Significant experience with unmanned system technologies and accompanying algorithms (specifically air domain)
• Experience with simulation tools and environments (e.g., AFSIM, NGTS) for testing and validation.
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot and optimize system performance.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.
• Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Mathematical background in both linear/nonlinear control theory and autonomous systems technologies/algorithms
• Demonstrated problem solving skills by applying a scientific approach
• Ability to understand, derive, and implement motion models and accompanying controllers for trajectory generation and tracking.
• Experience with UCI and OMS Standards
• Active SECRET clearance

$229,233 - $343,849 a year

Full-time regular employee offer package:

Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity

Temporary employee offer package:

Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)

Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.

Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed toequal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.