# Senior Staff Engineer, Software - Autonomous Aircraft Integration (R4983)
**Company:** [Shield AI](https://hotfix.jobs/companies/shield-ai)
**Location:** Washington, DC, Boston, MA, San Diego, CA
**Salary:** $221K-$331K
**Experience:** 10+ years
**Skills:** C++, Python, Rtos, Linux, ROS, Dds, Embedded Systems, Shell Scripting, Afsim, Ngts
**Posted:** 2025-08-15
> Integrates autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft, handles pre-flight preparation, supports on-site flight tests, debugs hardware/software issues, and analyzes flight data in lab and field settings. Requires 10+ years experience, C++/Python proficiency, and embedded systems knowledge.
## Job Description
## What you'll do
- **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** – 30-40% travel to office locations, customer sites, and flight integration events.

## Required Qualifications
- BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, 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 with 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.

## Preferred Qualifications
- Direct experience supporting unmanned aerial systems or similar flight test campaigns.
- Familiarity with autonomy stacks, flight control systems, or GNC pipelines.
- Competence in sensor integration, electronics debugging, or avionics bring-up.
- Proficiency in developing automation tools for system testing, logging, and data parsing.
- Comfortable interfacing with DoD stakeholders during field events or technical reviews.
- Experience with **UCI** and **OMS** Standards.
**Apply:** https://hotfix.jobs/jobs/senior-staff-engineer-software-autonomous-aircraft-integration-r4983-at-shield-21adca5a-476e-4b6c-a8cc-297f3b246ddf
**Canonical:** https://hotfix.jobs/jobs/senior-staff-engineer-software-autonomous-aircraft-integration-r4983-at-shield-21adca5a-476e-4b6c-a8cc-297f3b246ddf