# Senior Engineer, Autonomy Systems Integration and Test (R4472)

**Company:** [Shield AI](https://hotfix.jobs/companies/shield-ai)
**Location:** San Diego, CA
**Role:** DevOps / SRE
**Salary:** $110k – $170k/yr
**Experience:** 4+ years
**Skills:** Python, C++, Sil, Hil, Vil, ROS, Flight Controllers, Radios, Unmanned Aerial Systems, Test Automation
**Posted:** 2026-01-31

> Leads hands-on integration and testing of autonomy systems on small unmanned aircraft, debugging issues across hardware, software, and flight environments. Requires 4-7 years experience in robotics/aerospace testing, Python/C++ proficiency, and bachelor's in engineering or related field.

## Job Description

## Responsibilities
- Execute hands-on integration and testing of Hivemind autonomy systems on Group 1–2 platforms, with opportunities to contribute to Group 5 systems
- Debug and troubleshoot complex system issues across autonomy, flight controllers, radios, networking, and software interfaces
- Develop and execute test plans across simulation, SIL, HIL, VIL, and real flight environments
- Support flight test operations including system bring-up, pre-flight checks, in-flight monitoring, and post-flight analysis
- Build and maintain test tools, automation, and infrastructure in **Python** and **C++**
- Analyze test data and drive root cause investigations to improve system performance and reliability
- Collaborate closely with software, hardware, and flight test teams to ensure seamless integration
- Operate effectively in fast-paced, ambiguous environments where systems and processes are still evolving
- Identify and implement improvements to test efficiency, coverage, and system robustness

## Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, Aerospace, or related field, or equivalent experience
- 4–7 years of experience in integration and testing of robotics, autonomy, aerospace, or similar complex systems
- Strong hands-on experience working with real hardware systems and field or flight testing
- Experience with **SIL**, **HIL**, and **VIL** environments
- Proficiency in **Python** and/or **C++** for scripting, automation, or debugging
- Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex, cross-disciplinary systems (hardware, software, communications)
- Comfortable working in ambiguous environments with evolving requirements
- Strong sense of ownership, urgency, and problem-solving mindset
- U.S. Citizenship and ability to obtain a SECRET clearance

## Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with unmanned aerial systems (fixed-wing, quadrotor, or both)
- Background in autonomy, robotics, or aerospace systems
- Familiarity with flight controllers, radios, and communications systems
- Experience supporting flight test operations
- Hands-on background such as FIRST Robotics, maker projects, or similar practical experience
- Experience contributing to automated test frameworks or infrastructure
- Active SECRET clearance

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