Integrate and deploy autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft, prepare flight-ready systems, support on-site flight tests, debug hardware/software, capture and analyze flight data, collaborate with autonomy/GNC/test teams, and support certification and continuous improvement for reliable autonomous operations.
Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software and V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube.
This position is ideal for an individual who thrives on solving complex integration challenges that span hardware, software, and systems engineering. A successful candidate will be skilled at deploying autonomy solutions onto unmanned platforms, preparing systems for flight, and troubleshooting mission-critical issues in both lab and field environments.
The role is highly dynamic, requiring hands-on experience, strong systems thinking, and the ability to operate effectively in fast-paced, real-world test conditions. Our Flight Integration Engineers are essential to bridging the gap between R&D and deployment, ensuring that autonomous systems function reliably and effectively when and where they are needed most.
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 – Members of this team typically travel around 30-40% of the year (to different office locations, customer sites, and flight integration events).
Required 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 7 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 5 years and a Master’s degree; or 4 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 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.
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.
Our international teammates receive a comprehensive total rewards package aligned to your country office location. For full details on compensation and benefits, please consult your talent acquisition partner.
Shield AI London, England Office
Shield AI London Office
4 More London Place, London, England, United Kingdom, SE1 2AF
Similar Jobs at Shield AI
Aerospace • Artificial Intelligence • Machine Learning • Robotics • Software
Lead program finance for a high-growth defense business unit: build and maintain financial models, analyze program financials, support EVM and EAC, partner with program management and engineering, drive month/quarter close, enable budgeting/forecasting and process automation, and present insights to senior leadership to support strategic decisions.
Top Skills:
CostpointEarned Value Management (Evm)ExcelOracleSAP
Aerospace • Artificial Intelligence • Machine Learning • Robotics • Software
Lead planning, execution, and delivery of Hivemind Enterprise software releases. Build simulation-based test automation and manage test operations from CI through HIL and flight test. Coordinate cross-functional teams, define test scope, create project plans, mitigate risks, communicate status to stakeholders, and drive continuous improvement and technical decision-making.
Top Skills:
AIAutonomy SoftwareCiFlight TestHardware-In-The-LoopHilHivemindJIRAMlSdkSimulation-Based Test Automation
Aerospace • Artificial Intelligence • Machine Learning • Robotics • Software
Serve as specialist seller for the Aechelon simulation portfolio across international markets. Partner with regional sales leaders and account teams to identify, qualify, and advance opportunities; support customer meetings, demos, proposals, and pursuit activities; connect customer requirements to product capabilities; drive pipeline and maintain pursuit visibility; align cross-functionally with GTM, Product, Marketing, and Operations to scale simulation business internationally.
Top Skills:
AechelonAutonomyHivemindSimulationV-BatX-Bat
What you need to know about the London Tech Scene
London isn't just a hub for established businesses; it's also a nursery for innovation. Boasting one of the most recognized fintech ecosystems in Europe, attracting billions in investments each year, London's success has made it a go-to destination for startups looking to make their mark. Top U.K. companies like Hoptin, Moneybox and Marshmallow have already made the city their base — yet fintech is just the beginning. From healthtech to renewable energy to cybersecurity and beyond, the city's startups are breaking new ground across a range of industries.
