# Staff Software Engineer, Autonomous Pilot Integration (R5395) at Shield AI

- Company: Shield AI
- What the company does: Autonomy for the world. Backed by a16z.
- Company website: https://shield.ai
- Type: Startups (AI role)
- Level: Senior
- Location: San Mateo, California
- Work setup: On-site
- Pay: $234K to $351K base salary per year (USD)
- Posted: 2026-09-01
- Apply by: 2026-10-16
- Apply: https://jobs.lever.co/shieldai/1b05ba43-1659-42d9-89c5-91e204da8d1f
- Page: https://www.1752.vc/careers/jobs/shield-ai-staff-software-engineer-autonomous-pilot-integration-r5395/

## About the role

Develop & Field Autonomy — Develop & integrate autonomy software solutions onto unmanned platforms (air, maritime, space, or effects/expendables), including payload computer bring-up, container-based deployment (e.g., k3s/k3d), and configuration across onboard compute, sensors, and command-and-control interfaces — and lead a small team through the design, development, and delivery of a major capability or sub-program.

## What they're looking for

- BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, and/or similar degree, or equivalent practical experience
- Typically requires a minimum of 7 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree, or 5 years and a Master’s degree, or 4 years with a PhD, or equivalent work experience
- Proficiency in C++, with experience developing or integrating real-time or latency-sensitive systems
- Proficiency in Linux-based development and experience working with embedded systems, shell scripting, and system diagnostics
- Familiarity with middleware, pub-sub, or IPC frameworks used in autonomy or robotics systems (e.g., DDS, message buses)
- Hands-on experience supporting demos, exercises, or field/mission tests for unmanned or autonomous systems

Tags: Flight System Integration