Senior Autonomy Software Engineer - Space & Defense

InvestedintheMission; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 160,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus

Equity

Benefits

Job summary

Shield AI is seeking a Senior Software Engineer to design and own autonomy behaviors powering our space-focused products. You’ll balance theory with practical implementation, turning mission needs into reliable software across platforms.

You’ll lead cross-functional work, shape roadmaps, and contribute to near-term deliverables while maintaining long-term performance and maintainability. A SECRET clearance is preferred. Based in the U.S., travel is expected.

Qualifications

• BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent.
• Typically requires a minimum of 5 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 4 years and a Master’s degree; or 2 years with a PhD; or equivalent work experience.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as C++ and Python, and familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS)
• Significant background in control systems, motion planning, optimization, tactical behaviors, and/or distributed decision-making
• Significant experience with unmanned system technologies and accompanying algorithms (ideally in the space domain specifically)
• Experience with simulation tools and environments (e.g., AFSIM, NGTS, or similar) 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 or higher

Responsibilities

• Multi-Objective Optimization – use advanced optimization to perform large-scale distributed decision making, task allocation, and resource scheduling in multi-satellite missions
• Weapons Target Assignment – apply approaches for target assignment and motion planning for fleets of space vehicles and interceptors
• Advance the State of the Art – pioneer topics in low-SWaP optimal control and tactical behavior management
• Rigorous Software Development – develop high-performance modules with clear interfaces and TRL readiness
• Cross-Functional Collaboration – work with perception, planning, simulation, hardware, and flight test teams
• Deployment & Test Support – deploy autonomy capabilities to real space vehicles and analyze mission logs
• R&D and Road-mapping – research algorithms and propose solutions to advance Shield AI’s mission
• Travel Requirement – travel 10-15% of the year to office locations, customer sites, and events

Skills

C++

Python

RTOS

Robotics

Motion Planning

Optimization

Distributed Decision-Making

Unmanned Systems

Communication Skills

Teamwork

Education

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

Tools

AFSIM

NGTS

RTOS familiarity

Job description

Shield AI is seeking a Senior Software Engineer to design and own autonomy behaviors powering our space-focused products. You’ll balance theory with practical implementation, turning mission needs into reliable software across platforms.

You’ll lead cross-functional work, shape roadmaps, and contribute to near-term deliverables while maintaining long-term performance and maintainability. A SECRET clearance is preferred. Based in the U.S., travel is expected.