Senior Flight Integration Engineer – Autonomy Software

Shield AI; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 221,000 - 331,000; Full time

Job summary

Shield AI is seeking a Flight Integration Engineer to deploy autonomy software on unmanned aircraft, oversee pre‑flight configuration, and support field operations. The role spans hardware/software debugging, data capture, and collaboration with autonomy, GNC, and systems teams to ensure mission readiness.

The position requires hands‑on experience, strong systems thinking, and the ability to work in fast‑paced test environments, with travel 30–40% of the year.

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 10 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 9 years and a Master’s degree; or 7 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.

Skills

C++

Python

RTOS

Linux

Embedded systems

Shell scripting

System diagnostics

Sensor integration

Sensor fusion

Middleware (ROS)

DDS

Flight demos

Simulation tools

Problem solving

Communication

Education

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

Tools

ROS

DDS

AFSIM

NGTS

Job description

Shield AI is seeking a Flight Integration Engineer to deploy autonomy software on unmanned aircraft, oversee pre‑flight configuration, and support field operations. The role spans hardware/software debugging, data capture, and collaboration with autonomy, GNC, and systems teams to ensure mission readiness.

The position requires hands‑on experience, strong systems thinking, and the ability to work in fast‑paced test environments, with travel 30–40% of the year.