Senior Manager, Embedded Firmware; Dallas​/Boston

Shield AI is redefining autonomous aviation with cutting‑edge AI and GPS/RF‑denied navigation technologies. Now, we’re building XBAT, a next‑generation aircraft like no other—one that will push the boundaries of innovation and performance.

We’re looking for a Senior Manager to own embedded software systems and lead the team from concept to flight‑ready software to production. You will maintain a high standard for requirements and design reviews, coordinate software development and marshal software releases through test, verification and deployment.

• Build, lead and mentor a world‑class software engineering team
• Be responsible for the XBAT embedded software schedule and how it rolls up into the larger XBAT program schedule
• Drive the planning and execution of releases of embedded software to the XBAT program across the full embedded domain (real‑time software, FPGA cores, and operating systems)
• Maintain technical excellence across the team with rigorous design processes
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with Shield’s core teams, such as engineering, production, supply chain, business development, and program management
• Collaborate cross‑functionally within the engineering teams such as propulsion, electrical, mechanical, state estimation, and guidance and control
• Engage with external partners – coordinate with vendors and engineering teams as needed
• Work in a fast‑paced environment
• Design and implement systems capable of conducting tests across various environments, including virtualized hardware and hardware‑in‑the‑loop simulations, to facilitate thorough evaluation of software functionality and performance.
• Develop innovative tools to enhance the frequency and reliability of software deployment, test execution, and data analysis within a continuous integration and release system, fostering improved efficiency and productivity in software development workflows.

• 8+ years of experience as a Software Engineer or a related field
• 2+ years of experience managing software teams
• Strong expertise in C++
• Strong expertise in embedded and real‑time software principles
• Proven experience designing software systems in a safety or reliability critical field, such as aerospace, automotive, medical etc.
• Proven track record of successfully shipping products, showcasing the ability to navigate through development cycles, overcome obstacles, and deliver high‑quality solutions to meet project deadlines and exceed client expectations in a fast‑paced environment

• Knowledge of DO‑178C, MIL‑STD‑882, STANAG, or other safety/airworthiness frameworks
• Experience managing other managers
• Comfort operating in dynamic R&D environments where rapid iteration and tight feedback loops are the norm