Senior Staff Software Engineer - Autonomous Pilot Integration, Emerging Domains

Job overview

The Senior Staff Software Engineer - Autonomous Pilot Integration, Emerging Domains role is onsite in San Diego, CA, with a salary range of $233,760–$350,640 per year. Shield AI develops intelligent systems intended to protect service members and civilians; this role supports its Emerging Domains team across new platforms and mission areas. The engineer sets technical direction for autonomy programs and helps turn early research and development efforts into scalable operational programs. The work guides architecture, integration, deployment readiness, and collaboration across engineering teams, customers, and platform partners.

What you'll do

• Define technical strategy for autonomy on new platforms and mission areas
• guide architecture and integration strategies
• lead development and deployment across space, maritime, contested logistics, and emerging platforms
• partner with platform teams and stakeholders
• lead architecture reviews and engineering standards
• guide release strategy and mission validation
• provide technical leadership during demonstrations, exercises, and customer events
• resolve complex hardware/software integration problems
• support mission data debriefs and continuous improvement
• mentor technical talent. Travel is typically 10–20% of the year.

What we're looking for

Skills & competencies

senior staff software engineer

autonomous pilot integration

emerging domains

autonomy

c++

linux

systems integration

defense technology

san diego ca

shield ai

10–20% travel

secret clearance eligibility

$233,760–$350,640/year

Work arrangement

• Weekend coverage required

Benefits & perks

• Regular employee package includes pay within range, bonus, benefits, and equity.
• The posting also describes benefits for eligible employees, with details dependent on employment status.

Why this role

The team’s work spans space, maritime, and contested logistics autonomy; travel is typically 10–20% of the year, and the role requires ability to obtain a SECRET clearance.

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.