Senior Autonomy Architect, Maritime Systems

f7d8749a-72d6-407c-bf98-292ea630c73a; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 221,000 - 331,000; Full time

Job summary

Shield AI is hiring a Senior Staff Engineer to lead the maritime autonomy portfolio, delivering advanced single- and multi-agent capabilities for USVs, UUVs, and cooperating UAVs. You will blend control theory with optimization to bring solutions from R&D to real platforms across diverse programs.

You’ll mentor engineers, shape architectural direction, and drive cross-functional collaboration to ensure robust, field-ready autonomy. This role supports multi-year programs and requires travel.

Qualifications

• BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical, Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent
• Typically requires 10+ years with a Bachelor's; 9 years with a Master; 7 with a PhD or equivalent
• Proficiency in C++ and Python; familiarity with RTOS
• Background in robotics: motion planning, behavior modeling, decision-making, autonomous system design
• Experience with unmanned system technologies and related algorithms (ideally space)
• Experience with simulation tools/environments (AFSIM, NGTS) for testing and validation
• Strong problem-solving and teamwork skills in a multidisciplinary setting

Responsibilities

• Robust Motion Planning–Automate USV/UUV maneuvering with safety constraints
• Localization and Tracking—define fusion modalities and observability for sensor networks
• Safe Maritime Operations—ensure COLREGs adherence and operator trust
• Heterogeneous Multi-Agent Collaboration—distributed optimization and task allocation
• Rigorous Software Development—high-performance modules with clear interfaces
• Cross-Functional Collaboration—work with perception, planning, hardware, and simulation teams
• Deployment & Test Support—deploy to real surface vehicles and analyze mission logs
• R&D and Road-mapping—prototype new algorithms to advance Shield AI’s mission
• Travel Requirement–approx. 25% travel yearly

Skills

C++

Python

RTOS

Robotics

Motion planning

Team collaboration

Education

BS/MS in Computer Science/Engineering

Equivalent experience

Tools

AFSIM

NGTS

Simulation tools

Job description

Shield AI is hiring a Senior Staff Engineer to lead the maritime autonomy portfolio, delivering advanced single- and multi-agent capabilities for USVs, UUVs, and cooperating UAVs. You will blend control theory with optimization to bring solutions from R&D to real platforms across diverse programs.

You’ll mentor engineers, shape architectural direction, and drive cross-functional collaboration to ensure robust, field-ready autonomy. This role supports multi-year programs and requires travel.