Staff Systems Engineer, Next-Generation UAS

Job overview

The Staff Systems Engineer role is onsite in Seattle, WA, with annual pay of $144,000–$210,000. The engineer supports Shield AI’s next-generation unmanned aircraft systems program. Shield AI develops intelligent systems intended to protect service members and civilians. The role leads system architecture, requirements, and integration across aircraft subsystems, including avionics, autonomy, propulsion, sensors, and mission systems. It supports development, safety analysis, flight testing, and operational deployment of a mission-ready autonomous aircraft platform.

What you'll do

• Develop and refine system architecture
• define system behavior, modes, transitions, and fault responses
• support safety analyses
• establish and manage system requirements and traceability
• integrate autonomy and AI capabilities
• use model-based systems engineering tools
• conduct trade studies and assess technical risks
• coordinate with government stakeholders and cross-functional engineering teams.

What we're looking for

Skills & competencies

staff systems engineer

unmanned aircraft systems

uas

systems architecture

autonomy

avionics integration

model-based systems engineering

flight testing

seattle wa

shield ai

$144k–$210k/year

Work arrangement

• Weekend coverage required

Benefits & perks

• Regular employee offer package includes bonus, benefits, and equity
• temporary employee benefits may apply after 60 days.

Why this role

The role focuses on next-generation UAS and requires experience with system architecture, avionics integration, autonomy-driven flight systems, and model-based systems engineering tools.

About the employer

Shield AI is hiring for this role. Industry: Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology). Sector: 54.