Field Engineer

Shift5 is building the data platform for onboard operational technology (OT). We deliver cybersecurity, predictive maintenance, and compliance capabilities that enable defense and commercial fleets to operate with greater readiness, resilience, and mission assurance.

We are seeking a mission‑aligned Field Engineer to support deployments of Shift5’s platform across defense and commercial environments, ensuring successful installation, integration, and operational performance in the field.

This role sits at the intersection of Engineering, Customer Success, and Operations and will play a critical role in supporting Shift5’s next phase of growth.

This is not a purely desk‑based role. It requires hands‑on problem solving, adaptability, and willingness to operate in dynamic, mission‑critical environments.

• Support and execute on‑site and remote deployments of Shift5’s platform across customer environments (rail, aviation, defense).
• Assist with installation, configuration, and troubleshooting of hardware and software systems.
• Partner closely with Engineering, Customer Success, and Program teams to ensure successful implementations.
• Drive measurable impact in deployment success, system uptime, and customer satisfaction.
• Identify and act on opportunities to improve deployment processes, documentation, and repeatability.
• Navigate operational technology (OT) environments and customer site constraints, including secure or regulated environments.
• Contribute directly to scaling Shift5’s field operations and deployment capabilities.

• Successfully support multiple deployments within the first 90 days.
• Establish credibility with internal teams and customer stakeholders onsite.
• Improve deployment efficiency and reduce time to operational readiness.
• Contribute to clear documentation and repeatable deployment processes.
• Support reliable system performance across customer environments.

• Experience or interest in field engineering, systems engineering, or technical support roles.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot technical issues and work hands‑on with hardware/software systems.
• Strong problem‑solving and communication skills.
• Comfort operating in a fast‑paced, startup and mission‑driven environment.
• Willingness to travel (up to ~50% as needed).
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• Eligibility for a U.S. security clearance and possession of a valid U.S. passport required.
• Administrative or power user level experience with Linux, IT networking fundamentals, cybersecurity experience, and electrical troubleshooting expertise.
• Experience building containerized services in Rust and Go, from MVP through demo‑ready prototypes.
• Bonus program and equity in a fast‑growing startup.
• Competitive salary and stock options in a fast‑growing startup.
• Employer‑paid medical, dental and vision coverage.
• Health Savings Account with annual employer contributions.
• Life Insurance.
• Uncapped paid time off policy.
• Tax‑deferred public transit benefits with Metro Smart Benefits (DC/MD/VA).

Shift5 is committed to equal employment opportunity and affirmative action. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics. Shift5 is an Equal Opportunity Employer.