Senior Flight Integration Engineer — Autonomous UAS

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

Job summary

Shield AI is seeking a Flight Integration Engineer to deploy autonomy software on unmanned aircraft, own flight‑ready configurations, and support field tests. You will troubleshoot hardware/software issues, capture flight data, and collaborate with autonomy, GNC, and systems teams to ensure mission success.

Ideal candidates have 5+ years in related roles, strong C++/Python skills, and experience with ROS/DDS, RTOS, and Linux. Some travel is required for test campaigns and site visits.

Qualifications

• BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, and/or similar degree, or equivalent practical experience
• 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)
• Proficiency in Linux‑based development and experience working with embedded systems, shell scripting, and system diagnostics
• Knowledge of sensor integration, sensor fusion, and middleware frameworks (e.g., ROS, DDS)
• Hands‑on experience supporting flight demos or live exercises
• Experience with simulation tools and environments (e.g., AFSIM, NGTS) 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.

Responsibilities

• System Integration & Deployment – Integrate autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft systems, ensuring seamless operation across onboard compute, sensors, and control interfaces
• Pre‑flight Preparation – Own the build, configuration, and validation process for flight‑ready systems; coordinate hardware/software compatibility and mission readiness
• On‑site Flight Test Support – Travel to test sites and support live flight operations, including safety checks, system bring‑up, and troubleshooting under time‑critical constraints
• Hardware/Software Debugging – Diagnose and resolve integration issues across complex autonomy software stacks and embedded systems in lab and field environments
• Flight Data Capture & Analysis – Manage data collection during missions and post‑test analysis, working with autonomy engineers to refine behaviors and identify improvements
• Collaboration Across Teams – Work closely with autonomy, GNC, systems, and test teams to ensure mission‑critical functionality is delivered on time and validated thoroughly
• Continuous Improvement – Build tools and processes to improve integration timelines, flight test reliability, and team efficiency across deployment cycles
• Support Certification and Compliance – Assist with documentation and system‑level validation required for certification, airworthiness, and compliance in defense‑relevant environments
• Travel Requirement – Members of this team typically travel around 30-40% of the year (to different office locations, customer sites, and flight integration events)

Skills

C++

Python

RTOS

Linux development

Embedded systems

ROS

DDS

Sensor fusion

Communication

Teamwork

Problem solving

Education

BS/MS in Computer Science / Electrical Engineering / Aerospace Engineering

Tools

AFSIM

NGTS

ROS

Embedded debugging tools

Job description

Shield AI is seeking a Flight Integration Engineer to deploy autonomy software on unmanned aircraft, own flight‑ready configurations, and support field tests. You will troubleshoot hardware/software issues, capture flight data, and collaborate with autonomy, GNC, and systems teams to ensure mission success.

Ideal candidates have 5+ years in related roles, strong C++/Python skills, and experience with ROS/DDS, RTOS, and Linux. Some travel is required for test campaigns and site visits.