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Shield AI is seeking a Senior Staff Engineer for Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) to join its autonomy software team. This role focuses on researching and developing state-of-the-art algorithms for high-performance autonomous flight systems. You'll work on an agile team grounded in first principles, pushing the boundaries of control systems and vehicle dynamics.
Key responsibilities include:
- Designing and optimizing flight control algorithms for autonomous aircraft
- Developing and tuning control systems in both simulation and real-world environments
- Modeling aircraft dynamics and analyzing stability and handling qualities
- Implementing modern control theory techniques (LQR/LQG, adaptive control, robust control, MPC)
- Collaborating with cross-functional teams to integrate GNC systems into production platforms
- Contributing to system identification, sensor integration (INS, air data units, vision-based navigation), and filtering algorithms
Required qualifications include a BS in Aerospace, Aeronautical, Mechanical, Electrical, or Software Engineering with control systems focus, plus 7+ years of related experience (or 6 years with MS, 4 years with PhD). You must have production C++ experience, proficiency with MATLAB and Simulink, and expert knowledge of aircraft dynamics and control. Strong problem-solving skills, communication, and the ability to obtain a SECRET clearance are essential.
Preferred qualifications include an MS or PhD in a relevant engineering discipline, expertise in modern control theory, proficiency extracting linear state-space models from nonlinear equations, experience with servo and sensor selection, familiarity with Kalman filters and system identification, and knowledge of git and CI/CD practices.
Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with offices globally, developing autonomy software, autonomous aircraft (V-BAT, X-BAT), and simulation technologies that support operations worldwide.
