Senior Autonomy Architect: Emerging Platforms & Missions

BlackCube Labs; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 233,760 - 350,640; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus

Benefits

Equity

Travel opportunities

Job summary

Shield AI is seeking a senior engineering leader to define the technical direction for Emerging Domains and guide autonomy strategy across multiple platforms. You’ll own end-to-end autonomy development, from software-in-the-loop to live tests, and partner with leadership to grow long-term programs.

You’ll drive architecture, engagement with platform teams, and interoperability standards while solving highly complex integration challenges and mentoring senior engineers.

Qualifications

• Expert-level C++ and Linux systems development experience.
• Experience defining technical strategy across programs or orgs.
• Proven track record solving complex systems integration challenges.
• Experience mentoring senior engineers and influencing direction.
• Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance.

Responsibilities

• Define technical strategy for Emerging Domains and multiple programs.
• Stand up new autonomy programs on new platforms and mission areas.
• Lead architecture reviews, ICDs, and engineering standards across teams.
• Guide development and field deployment of autonomy across domains.
• Foster platform partnerships and influence interface evolution.
• Collaborate across teams and partners to shape future portfolios.
• Drive continuous improvement of engineering processes and testing.
• Support pre-deployment, mission validation, and operational readiness.
• Provide senior technical leadership during critical demonstrations.
• Travel 10–20% of the year to locations and events.

Skills

C++

Linux systems

Technical strategy

Systems integration

Mentoring engineers

Security clearance

Education

BS/MS in engineering

Job description

Shield AI is seeking a senior engineering leader to define the technical direction for Emerging Domains and guide autonomy strategy across multiple platforms. You’ll own end-to-end autonomy development, from software-in-the-loop to live tests, and partner with leadership to grow long-term programs.

You’ll drive architecture, engagement with platform teams, and interoperability standards while solving highly complex integration challenges and mentoring senior engineers.