Staff Autonomy Engineer: Space & Multi-Agent Systems

Shield; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 230,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus

Benefits

Equity

Job summary

Shield AI is seeking a senior engineer to advance autonomy capabilities for satellites and space defense applications. You will work on large-scale distributed optimization, tasking, and track fusion across multi-satellite missions while balancing theory with real-world integration.

The role emphasizes rigorous software development, cross-functional collaboration, and deployment to real space platforms, with opportunities to influence roadmaps and technology strategy.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or higher in CS/EE/ME/Aerospace or related field.
• 7+ years of related experience with a Bachelor’s, or 6 years with a Master’s, or 4 years with a PhD.
• Proficiency in C++ and Python; familiarity with RTOS.
• Strong background in robotic technologies: control, planning, optimization, and distributed decision-making.
• Experience with unmanned systems and space-domain applications is a plus.
• Experience with simulation tools (AFSIM/NGTS or similar).
• Ability to obtain SECRET clearance or higher.

Responsibilities

• Develop autonomy capabilities for space platforms and missile-defense contexts.
• Perform large-scale distributed optimization for multi-satellite missions.
• Advance state-of-the-art in low-SWaP control and tactical behaviours.
• Develop high-performance, well-tested software with clear interfaces.
• Collaborate with perception, planning, simulation, hardware, and flight-test teams.
• Support deployment to real space vehicles and analyze mission logs.

Skills

C++

Python

RTOS

Distributed decision-making

Control systems

Education

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

Tools

AFSIM

NGTS

Job description

Shield AI is seeking a senior engineer to advance autonomy capabilities for satellites and space defense applications. You will work on large-scale distributed optimization, tasking, and track fusion across multi-satellite missions while balancing theory with real-world integration.

The role emphasizes rigorous software development, cross-functional collaboration, and deployment to real space platforms, with opportunities to influence roadmaps and technology strategy.