Staff Engineer, Software Embedded Applications (R5033)

Posted 5 Hours Ago
Be an Early Applicant
3 Locations
In-Office or Remote
160K-250K Annually
Senior level
Aerospace • Artificial Intelligence • Machine Learning • Robotics • Software
Our mission is to protect service members and civilians with intelligent systems.
The Role
Design and implement high-quality C/C++ embedded avionics software for X-Bat UAVs. Lead cross-functional teams, own features from design to production, integrate firmware and autonomy systems, and develop HIL/virtualized test environments. Produce architecture and test documentation, build CI/test tools, prototype concepts, and ensure reliability, safety, and compliance for aerospace deployments.
Summary Generated by Built In
Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software and V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube. 

Job Description:

We are seeking skilled, experienced embedded software engineers with relevant experience in C++ in embedded systems to join our X-BAT Embedded Software Team focused on developing complex avionics software that merges hardware and embedded applications for cutting-edge Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV). 

The Embedded Software Engineer works with in a high pace environment with a cross-functional team of program stakeholders, electrical engineers, Guidance, Navigation and Controls (GNC) engineers, systems engineers, test engineers and the autonomy team, to design and develop software systems which utilize modern aerospace sensors, state-of-the-art UAV avionics. 

What you'll do:

  • Develop high-quality C/C++ code tailored specifically for X-Bat aircraft, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and safety.  
  • Leading cross-functional teams to create systems of software features to implement advanced robotic avionics capabilities. 
  • Own complex software capabilities from design to production. 
  • Participate in architecture, design, and code reviews.  
  • Integrate software from multiple departments to include firmware, software test and verification, Autonomy AI, and Ground Control Stations (GCS)  
  • Develop software systems to implement and integrate interfaces to modern avionics sensors, sub-systems, and payloads  
  • Facilitate the design process for updates to the software system architecture   
  • Use modern software development tools and processes to capture our existing architecture and design future architectures  
  • Collaborating to define and extend systems engineering processes   
  • Report status, risks, accomplishments, expectations to senior leadership     
  • Design and implement systems capable of conducting tests across various environments, including virtualized hardware and hardware-in-the-loop simulations, to facilitate thorough evaluation of software functionality and performance.  
  • Develop innovative tools to enhance the frequency and reliability of software deployment, test execution, and data analysis within a continuous integration and release system, fostering improved efficiency and productivity in software development workflows.  
  • Create prototypes to validate critical design concepts and assess technical limitations, providing tangible evidence of feasibility and informing decision-making processes.  

Required qualifications:

  • Strong embedded software development experience in C/C++.  
  • Strong understanding of Oriented Object Programming and modern C++ features. 
  • Strong knowledge of embedded software, BSPs or other systems software components. 
  • Strong understanding of computer architecture, operating systems, and network protocols fundamentals. 
  • Demonstrated track record of assuming ownership over development processes and features and delivering outstanding outcomes. 
  • Experience producing high-quality technical documentation, including architecture, detailed designs, and test plans. 
  • Proven track record of successfully shipping products, showcasing the ability to navigate through development cycles, overcome obstacles, and deliver high-quality solutions to meet project deadlines and exceed client expectations in a fast-paced environment   
  • Proactively identify opportunities for improvement within software development projects, demonstrating initiative to propose and implement innovative solutions that enhance efficiency, quality, and overall project success and X-Bat reliability   
  • B.S., M.S, PhD degree in Systems Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Science or STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics) discipline, such as Aerospace, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering.
  • Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.

Preferred qualifications:

  • Proven background in thriving within fast-paced environments, within startup or R&D settings. 
  • Proven experience in development of military aircrafts.  
  • Compliance with DO-178C 
  • Demonstrated adaptability, agility, and the ability to innovate under pressure to meet dynamic project demands and drive successful outcomes. 
  • Familiar with FPGA development using SystemVerilog.   
  • Real Time Operating System (RTOS) experience. 

#LI-SM1
#LD

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.
 
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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. 

Skills Required

  • Strong embedded software development experience in C/C++
  • Strong understanding of Object Oriented Programming and modern C++ features
  • Strong knowledge of embedded software, BSPs or other systems software components
  • Strong understanding of computer architecture, operating systems, and network protocols fundamentals
  • Demonstrated track record of assuming ownership over development processes and features and delivering outstanding outcomes
  • Experience producing high-quality technical documentation, including architecture, detailed designs, and test plans
  • Proven track record of successfully shipping products in a fast-paced environment
  • Proactively identify and implement improvements within software development projects
  • B.S., M.S., or PhD in Systems Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Science, or related STEM discipline
  • Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance

What the Team is Saying

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Shield AI Compensation & Benefits Highlights

  • Healthcare Strength Company materials describe excellent medical, dental, and vision coverage alongside a mental‑health EAP. Site perks such as an onsite gym in DC and a gym discount in San Diego support a health‑focused offering.
  • Retirement Support Careers materials highlight a 401(k) with company match as part of the standard package. A Total Rewards overview emphasizes retirement features within a broader, transparent compensation view.
  • Career-Linked Recognition & Rewards Compensation for in‑demand technical and senior go‑to‑market roles is described as competitive, with visible engineering ranges and top‑end packages. This points to meaningful upside tied to role, level, and scarce skills.

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The Company
HQ: Port Melbourne, Victoria
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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Shield AI Offices

Hybrid Workspace

Employees engage in a combination of remote and on-site work.

Typical time on-site: 3 days a week
HQMelbourne, Victoria
HQSan Diego, CA
Abu Dhabi, AE
Arlington, VA
Boston, US
Frisco, US
Kyiv, UA
Melbourne, AU
Oslo, NO
Prosper, TX
Taipei City, TW
Taipei City, TW
Waltham, MA
Washington, US
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