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Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company developing autonomous aircraft systems, autonomy software (Hivemind), and simulation technologies for national defense. The company operates globally with offices across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific.
As a Staff Systems Engineer on Shield AI's next-generation UAS (unmanned aircraft system) program, you will lead the technical execution of system architecture for cutting-edge autonomous aircraft designed for national defense. You will be responsible for designing and integrating complex systems spanning avionics, autonomy, propulsion, sensor payloads, and mission-critical capabilities.
Key responsibilities include:
- Develop and refine system architecture for next-generation UAS, ensuring seamless integration across all subsystems
- 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 throughout the development lifecycle
- Work closely with autonomy and software teams to integrate AI-driven flight control, decision-making, and mission execution
- Utilize model-based systems engineering (MBSE) tools such as SysML, DOORS, or CAMEO to create digital system models, conduct trade studies, and optimize performance
- Conduct trade studies to evaluate design alternatives, assess technical risks, and ensure optimal engineering solutions
- Engage with DoD stakeholders, industry partners, and government agencies to align system capabilities with operational requirements
- Partner cross-functionally with hardware, autonomy, software, propulsion, and flight operations teams to drive system integration and rapid development
This role requires deep expertise in aerospace systems engineering, autonomy integration, and complex system design. You will work in a fast-paced, agile environment supporting developmental programs from concept through flight testing and operational deployment.
REQUIREMENTS:
- 8+ 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 tools (DOORS, SysML, CAMEO, or similar) 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 completion
- Ability to work in fast-paced, agile development environment with shifting priorities
- Experience on developmental programs from clean sheet to first flight
- Ability to obtain S//SAR level security clearance (desired)
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Experience developing AI-driven autonomy for unmanned aircraft
- Expertise in ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance), EW (Electronic Warfare), and advanced sensor integration
- Familiarity with modular open system architectures (MOSA) and Government Reference Architectures (GRA)
- Prior experience with defense primes, DoD stakeholders, or government R&D programs
- Active Secret or Top Secret clearance (or ability to obtain)
