Senior Engineer, Autonomy - Tactical Behaviors; R4074

Overview

Senior Engineer, Autonomy - Tactical Behaviors (R3914) at Shield AI. This role focuses on solving complex problems across a portfolio of autonomous systems, applying classical autonomous techniques, algorithms, and theory to platforms in multiple tactical scenarios. Solutions are integrated into real-world problems with near-term program impacts.

• Tactical Autonomy Design – Design tactical autonomy algorithms to enable unmanned aircraft to perform complex missions across air, land, and sea domains with minimal human supervision.
• High-Performance Software Development – Develop high-performance software modules that incorporate planning, decision-making, and behavior execution strategies for dynamic and adversarial environments.
• Behavior Architecture Implementation – Implement and test behavior architectures that enable multi-agent coordination, target engagement, reconnaissance, and survivability in contested scenarios.
• Hybrid Autonomy Integration – Work at the intersection of classical autonomy and machine learning, blending rule-based systems with learning-based methods such as reinforcement learning to achieve robust, adaptive behavior.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration – Collaborate with cross-functional teams including perception, planning, simulation, hardware, and flight test to ensure seamless integration of autonomy solutions on real-world platforms.
• Deployment & Field Testing – Deploy autonomy capabilities to real platforms and participate in field tests and flight demos, validating performance in operationally relevant conditions.
• Mission Data Analysis – Analyze mission logs and performance data to diagnose failures, optimize behavior models, and inform iterative development.
• R&D and Road mapping – Contribute to the autonomy roadmap by researching and prototyping new algorithms, identifying tactical capability gaps, and proposing novel solutions that advance Shield AI’s mission.
• Program Support & Adaptation – Support defense-focused programs and customer needs by adapting autonomy solutions to evolving mission sets, compliance requirements, and operational feedback.
• Travel – Travel approximately 10-15% of the year to different office locations, customer sites, and flight integration events.

• BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.
• Typically requires a minimum of 5 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 4 years with a Master’s degree; or 2 years with a PhD; or equivalent.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as C++ and Python, and familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS).
• Significant background in robotics technologies related to motion planning, behavior modeling, decision-making, or autonomous system design.
• Significant experience with unmanned system technologies and accompanying algorithms (specifically air domain).
• Experience with simulation tools and environments (e.g., AFSIM, NGTS) for testing and validation.
• Strong problem-solving skills and 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.

• Experience applying ML/RL techniques in autonomy pipelines.
• Background in collaborative behaviors, swarm robotics, or distributed decision-making.
• Familiarity with tactical behaviors for unmanned systems in DoD or government programs.
• Work on behaviors applicable across air, ground, and maritime vehicles.
• Hands-on experience supporting flight demos or live exercises.
• Experience with UCI and OMS Standards.

Salary range: $160,000 - $240,000 per year. Pay within range listed plus bonus, benefits, and equity. Offers contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits.

Shield AI is an equal opportunity workplace and affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. If you require accommodation, please contact us.

• Seniority level – Associate
• Employment type
  
  – Full-time
• Job function – Engineering and Information Technology
• Industries – Software Development

Note:

This job description reflects current responsibilities and qualifications and is subject to update. Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Shield AI.