Senior Staff Software Engineer, Autonomous Pilot Integration

Job overview

The Senior Staff Software Engineer, Autonomous Pilot Integration works onsite in Washington, DC. Compensation is $233,760–$350,640 per year. Shield AI develops intelligent systems intended to protect service members and civilians; this role supports the Autonomous Pilot Integration team. The engineer develops and integrates autonomy software onto unmanned platforms, owns technical direction across programs, and guides systems from simulation through hardware integration and field testing. The role bridges research and deployment while shaping architecture, interoperability, engineering practices, and team capability.

What you'll do

• Develop and integrate autonomy software on unmanned platforms
• lead technical direction and reference implementations across programs
• collaborate with engineering teams, customers, and external integrators
• mentor senior engineers and team leads
• lead design reviews and documentation
• prepare and validate mission-ready systems
• support on-site tests and mission operations
• debug hardware/software integration
• analyze mission data
• improve integration processes
• shape command-and-control interoperability and standards
• support hiring.

What we're looking for

Skills & competencies

senior staff software engineer

autonomous pilot integration

washington dc

shield ai

$233,760–$350,640/year

autonomy software

unmanned systems

c++

linux

embedded systems

mission testing

10–20% travel

secret clearance

Work arrangement

• Weekend coverage required

Benefits & perks

• Full-time regular employee package includes bonus, benefits, and equity
• temporary employee package includes temporary benefits after 60 days, as applicable.

Why this role

The team typically travels around 10–20% of the year. Requires substantial related experience, C++ and Linux development, embedded systems experience, and ability to obtain a SECRET clearance.

About the employer

Shield AI is hiring for this role. Industry: Engineering Services. Sector: 54.