Senior Autonomy & Flight Integration Engineer

Shield; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity

Health Benefits

Travel 30-40%

Job summary

Shield AI is seeking a Flight Integration Engineer to bridge R&D and deployment for unmanned aircraft systems. You will integrate autonomy software with onboard compute, sensors, and control interfaces, lead flight-ready build preparation, and support live test operations.

You will diagnose complex integration issues, analyze flight data, and collaborate with autonomy, GNC, and systems teams to ensure mission readiness while maintaining safety and schedule integrity.

Qualifications

• BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent practical experience
• Typically requires 7–10+ years with relevant degrees; extensive experience accepted in lieu of degree
• Proficiency in C++ and Python; familiarity with RTOS
• Experience with Linux-based development, embedded systems, shell scripting, diagnostics
• Knowledge of sensor integration, sensor fusion, and middleware (ROS, DDS)
• Hands-on experience supporting flight demos or live exercises
• Experience with simulation tools (AFSIM, NGTS) for testing/validation
• Strong problem-solving and collaboration skills; ability to work across teams
• Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance

Responsibilities

• System Integration & Deployment on unmanned aircraft, ensuring seamless operation across compute, sensors, and interfaces
• Pre-flight preparation: own build, configuration, and validation for flight-ready systems
• On-site flight test support: travel to test sites and assist live operations under time constraints
• Hardware/Software debugging across autonomy stacks and embedded systems in lab and field
• Flight data capture and analysis: collect data and refine behaviors with autonomy engineers
• Collaborate with autonomy, GNC, systems, and test teams to ensure timely delivery
• Develop tools and processes to improve integration timelines and flight test reliability
• Support certification and compliance documentation for airworthiness and defense environments
• Travel 30-40% of the year to various locations and events

Skills

C++

Python

RTOS

Linux

Education

BS/MS in CS/EE/Aerospace or equivalent

Tools

ROS

DDS

AFSIM

NGTS

Job description

Shield AI is seeking a Flight Integration Engineer to bridge R&D and deployment for unmanned aircraft systems. You will integrate autonomy software with onboard compute, sensors, and control interfaces, lead flight-ready build preparation, and support live test operations.

You will diagnose complex integration issues, analyze flight data, and collaborate with autonomy, GNC, and systems teams to ensure mission readiness while maintaining safety and schedule integrity.