Staff Software Engineer - Autonomous Aircraft Integration

Shield; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Shield AI in Arlington, VA is seeking a Flight Integration Engineer to bridge R&D and deployment for unmanned aircraft. You will deploy autonomy software onto UAS, own flight-ready builds, and support on-site flight tests with cross-functional teams to ensure mission readiness.

Ideal candidates have hands-on experience with flight demos, sensor fusion, ROS/DDS, and a SECRET clearance goal. Strong problem-solving and teamwork are essential in fast-paced defense environments.

Qualifications

• BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical, Mechanical, Aerospace or equivalent experience.
• Typically 7 years with a Bachelor’s degree; 5 years with a Master’s; 4 years with a PhD; or equivalent.
• Proficiency in C++ and Python; familiarity with RTOS.
• Experience in Linux development, embedded systems, shell scripting, and diagnostics.
• Knowledge of sensor integration, sensor fusion, and middleware (ROS, DDS).
• Hands-on flight demos or live exercises experience.
• Experience with simulation tools (AFSIM, NGTS).
• Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication; able to obtain SECRET clearance.

Responsibilities

• System Integration & Deployment — integrate autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft systems and ensure seamless operation.
• Pre-flight Preparation — own build, configuration, and validation for flight-ready systems.
• On-site Flight Test Support — travel to test sites and support live flight operations under time pressure.
• Hardware/Software Debugging — diagnose and resolve integration issues in lab and field.
• Flight Data Capture & Analysis — manage data collection and post-test analysis with autonomy engineers.
• Collaboration Across Teams — coordinate with autonomy, GNC, systems, and test teams to ensure timely delivery.
• Continuous Improvement — develop tools to improve integration timelines and test reliability.
• Certification & Compliance — assist with documentation and validation for airworthiness and DoD standards.

Skills

C++

Python

RTOS

Linux

Embedded systems

Sensor integration

ROS

DDS

Flight testing

Security clearance

Education

BS in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering or Aerospace

MS in related field

PhD in related field

Tools

ROS

DDS

Job description

Shield AI in Arlington, VA is seeking a Flight Integration Engineer to bridge R&D and deployment for unmanned aircraft. You will deploy autonomy software onto UAS, own flight-ready builds, and support on-site flight tests with cross-functional teams to ensure mission readiness.

Ideal candidates have hands-on experience with flight demos, sensor fusion, ROS/DDS, and a SECRET clearance goal. Strong problem-solving and teamwork are essential in fast-paced defense environments.