Staff Engineer, Software C++ (R2812)

Sorry, this job was removed at 07:02 p.m. (CST) on Tuesday, Jan 27, 2026
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Washington, DC
In-Office
141K-211K Annually
Aerospace • Artificial Intelligence • Machine Learning • Robotics • Software
Our mission is to protect service members and civilians with intelligent systems.
The Role

About Shield AI

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company focused on protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its flagship autonomy software, Hivemind, powers aircraft, drones, and other platforms, enabling complex missions with high reliability in contested environments. With offices in San Diego, Dallas, Washington, D.C., and internationally, Shield AI’s products actively support U.S. and allied operations worldwide.


For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn,Twitter, and Instagram.


This position is perfect for an individual who loves technology, solving complex challenges, wants to develop software for multiple projects, and write code with a motivated, diverse team. Shield AI is pushing the envelope by applying advanced AI solutions to real hardware systems. An ideal candidate should aspire to be a part of this industry-changing team developing and deploying advanced technology that can truly make an impact.


Shield AI is looking to continue to push the envelope by teaming traditional autonomous systems algorithms and deep reinforcement learning-based solutions to create an unmatched capability and speed to deployment technology base.


What You'll Do:

  • As a Software Engineer on this team, you will lead teams at the intersection of artificial intelligence, task & motion planning, and controls.
  • You will work closely with talented engineers to architect solutions, set standards for software engineering, drive strategic technical improvements, and mentor other engineers.
  • Write C++ software to help develop tooling and automated testing for autonomy solutions
  • Work with Subject Matter Experts to understand the customer demand and implement software solutions that meet their needs
  • Collaborate with Systems and Test engineers to develop fully tested, integrated solutions

Required Qualifications:

  • 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.
  • Ability to develop, benchmark, debug, and deploy software-based algorithms
  • Demonstrated problem solving skills by applying a scientific approach
  • 7+ years of industry experience
  • 2+ years of people leadership experience
  • Experience working projects with 10+ contributors
  • Offers Fast, efficient, effective problem solving approaches
  • Exceptional collaborator and communicator
  • Comfortability within Unix environments
  • Hard-working, trustworthy teammate
  • Exhibits holding themselves and others to high standards\
  • Being kind to others
  • Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance
  • Experience in a collaborative development environment, focused on continuous
  • integration/delivery & test-driven development
  • Strong knowledge of modern software engineering best practices
  • Demonstrated record of working hard, strong communication skills, being a trustworthy
  • teammate, and being kind to others
  • Strong organizational skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • MS or greater in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, and/or similar degree, or equivalent practical experience
  • Understanding of robotics technologies related to autonomous behavior development e.g. task allocation or planning.
  • Understanding/Experience with unmanned system technologies and accompanying algorithms (specifically air domain)
  • Active SECRET clearance
  • Experience with UCI and OMS Standards

Full-time regular employee offer package:

Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity


Temporary employee offer package:

Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)


Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.


###


Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know. 

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The Company
HQ: Port Melbourne, Victoria
0 Employees
Year Founded: 2015

What We Do

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed deep-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include the V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, Hivemind Enterprise, and the Hivemind Vision product lines. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and the Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide.

Why Work With Us

What makes Shield AI special is our people. We unlock the power of autonomy, and in the face of overwhelming odds and challenges, we find ways to win and make a difference for our customers. We bring together software, AI, and aerospace engineering disciplines to deploy the most intelligent aviation capabilities in the world.

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