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Shield AI is seeking a Senior Systems Engineer to lead the technical execution of system architecture for next-generation unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) designed for national defense. You will play a pivotal role in designing, developing, and integrating cutting-edge autonomous aircraft systems, working cross-functionally with hardware, software, autonomy, flight operations, and manufacturing teams.
Key responsibilities include:
• Develop and refine system architecture for next-gen UAS, ensuring seamless integration of avionics, autonomy, propulsion, sensor payloads, and mission-critical systems
• Define and document system-level behavior, including modes, states, transitions, and fault responses
• Support safety analyses (FHA, FMEA, FTA) by defining behavior under fault conditions
• Establish top-level requirements, decompose them into subsystems, and maintain traceability across the development lifecycle
• Work closely with autonomy and software teams to integrate AI-driven flight control, decision-making, and mission execution capabilities
• Utilize SysML, DOORS, or other MBSE tools to create digital system models, conduct trade studies, and optimize system performance
• Conduct trade studies to evaluate design alternatives, assess technical risks, and ensure optimal engineering solutions for mission effectiveness
• Engage with DoD stakeholders, industry partners, and government agencies to align system capabilities with operational requirements
• Drive seamless system integration and rapid development cycles across all functional teams
This role requires deep understanding of aerospace systems engineering, autonomy, and complex system integration. You will support the aircraft through flight testing and operational deployment while ensuring compliance with military and aviation standards.
REQUIREMENTS:
• 5+ years of experience in systems engineering for aerospace, defense, or autonomous aircraft systems
• Demonstrated experience defining system behavior logic and operational modes
• Deep expertise in system architecture, avionics integration, and autonomy-driven flight systems
• Proficiency in MBSE, DOORS, SysML, CAMEO, or similar system modeling tools for complex systems design and analysis
• Experience with Group 4 or Group 5 UAS, military aircraft, or autonomous airborne platforms
• Strong background in flight testing, system integration, and performance validation
• Knowledge of DoD acquisition processes, MIL-STDs, FAA airworthiness certification, and airborne system safety standards
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive complex projects to successful completion
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, agile development environment with shifting priorities
• Experience on developmental programs from clean sheet to first flight
• Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance (desired)
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
• Experience developing AI-driven autonomy for unmanned aircraft
• Expertise in ISR, EW, and advanced sensor integration for airborne platforms
• Familiarity with modular open system architectures (MOSA) and Government Reference Architectures (GRA) for defense applications
• Prior experience working with defense primes, DoD stakeholders, or government R&D programs
• Active Secret or Top Secret clearance (or ability to obtain one)
