Senior Autonomy Software Engineer - Embedded Systems

Shield; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus

Benefits

Equity

Job summary

Shield AI’s Autonomous Pilot Integration team is seeking an engineer to develop and integrate autonomy software for launched effects platforms. You will own major features from design through live flight testing, collaborating with Autonomy Capabilities, Perception, and customer partners to deliver mission-ready systems in demanding environments.

You should have a strong background in C++ and real-time embedded systems, plus experience with PX4/ArduPilot and modern development tools.

Qualifications

• BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.
• Typically requires 5+ years of relevant experience (or equivalent advanced degree experience).
• Strong proficiency in C++ and experience developing or integrating real‑time or embedded systems.
• Experience with Linux‑based development and embedded systems.
• Experience integrating complex software and hardware systems.
• Experience supporting system integration, testing, or field events.
• Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance.

Responsibilities

• Develop and integrate autonomy software onto launched effects platforms, incl. autopilot integration and multi‑agent coordination.
• Own major features or subsystems; drive technical execution and mentor teammates.
• Collaborate with Autonomy Capabilities, Perception, and partners to deliver integrated autonomy.
• Contribute to design reviews, ICDs, integration planning, and post‑mortems.
• Prepare systems for capability releases and fleet deployments, ensuring hardware/software compatibility.
• Travel to test sites and support live demonstrations for flight operations.
• Diagnose and resolve integration issues across autonomy software and hardware interfaces.
• Capture mission data and drive improvements for future releases.

Skills

C++

Linux

Embedded systems

Real-time systems

System integration

Security clearance eligibility

Education

BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

PX4

ArduPilot

Python

Docker

CMake/Conan

CI/CD

Job description

Shield AI’s Autonomous Pilot Integration team is seeking an engineer to develop and integrate autonomy software for launched effects platforms. You will own major features from design through live flight testing, collaborating with Autonomy Capabilities, Perception, and customer partners to deliver mission-ready systems in demanding environments.

You should have a strong background in C++ and real-time embedded systems, plus experience with PX4/ArduPilot and modern development tools.