Full-Time

Principal Software Engineer

Updated on 5/2/2024

Shield AI

501-1,000 employees

AI-driven autonomous aircraft and drone operations

AI & Machine Learning

Aerospace

Expert

San Diego, CA, USA

Required Skills

Python

Development Operations (DevOps)

Requirements

15 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree
10+ years of hands-on experience in designing and developing production quality software systems
5+ years of experience in C++11 or later
Extensive experience with cloud technologies and architectures
Strong background in DevOps practices
Proficiency with CLI tools and software distribution methods
Demonstrated ability in software architecture and modeling
Experience in the commercialization of software
Experience with Go or Python

Responsibilities

Serve as a key liaison between the Simulation, API, Infrastructure team and C++ development teams
Lead architectural design and integration efforts
Develop cutting-edge tools for building and deploying autonomous systems
Drive the adoption of HMD tooling and best practices across teams
Contribute to the strategic direction of software commercialization

Hivemind Design (HMD) is an innovative simulation, data science, and infrastructure team at Shield AI. We own the tools for designing, developing, testing, deploying, and evaluating instances of the Hivemind AI pilot and commander. Our software products enable companies to construct and control sophisticated autonomous systems, and therefore we are transforming the future of autonomy. We are committed to excellence, driving innovations that prepare autonomous agents for the most critical missions.

The Hivemind Design product is Shield AI’s AI Factory; a service-oriented architecture leveraged through an SDK, CLI, and web portal. Our focus is on leveraging both virtualized and bare-metal infrastructure to orchestrate autonomous agents in sophisticated simulations, dynamically configure test beds, and pioneer software configurations and deployments on robotic systems. The HMD team is not only solving problems; we are tasked with setting new benchmarks in technology and delivering unparalleled user experiences.

We pride ourselves on a diverse team of experts from fields such as computer science, aerospace, game design, and distributed simulation systems. This diversity fuels our innovative spirit, in an environment that values creativity, teamwork, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

As a Principal Engineer on the Hivemind Design (HMD) team, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the architecture and ensuring seamless integration among HMD’s simulation software, hybrid cloud infrastructure/APIs, and the core autonomous system development, which is predominantly implemented in C++ within the Hivemind product organization. This position provides a unique opportunity to significantly influence the development and commercialization of cutting-edge autonomous systems, leveraging your expertise to drive innovation and excellence within our dynamic ecosystem.

What You’ll Do:

Serve as a key liaison between the Simulation, API, Infrastructure team and C++ development teams within the Hivemind organization, ensuring seamless integration and utilization of the hybrid cloud infrastructure for autonomous system development.
Lead architectural design and integration efforts, establishing best practices and guiding principles for the development, testing, documentation, and deployment of autonomous systems.
Develop cutting-edge tools for building and deploying the next generation of autonomous systems.
Drive the adoption of HMD tooling and best practices across teams, enhancing efficiency and reliability of software development and deployment processes.
Contribute to the strategic direction of software commercialization, ensuring our solutions meet market demands and comply with regulatory standards.

Required Qualifications:

Typically requires a minimum of 15 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 14 years and a Master’s degree; or a PhD with 12 years experience; or equivalent experience.
10+ years of hands-on experience in designing and developing production quality software systems.
5+ years of experience in C++11 or later, with the ability to understand and interface with complex C++ codebases.
Extensive experience with cloud technologies and architectures, preferably with a focus on hybrid cloud environments
Strong background in DevOps practices, including continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipelines, automation tools, and infrastructure as code. Proficiency with CLI tools and software distribution methods, such as Debian packages.
Demonstrated ability in software architecture and modeling, with the capacity to design scalable, maintainable, and secure systems.
Experience in the commercialization of software, including understanding market needs, regulatory requirements, and the software development lifecycle.
Demonstrated record of working hard, being a trustworthy teammate, holding yourself and others to high standards, and being kind to others 
Experience with Go or Python

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with integrating diverse systems and technologies, particularly in environments where autonomous systems are developed, tested, analyzed, and commanded.
Ability to work effectively with teams across different disciplines, translating technical requirements and ensuring alignment between infrastructure capabilities and software development needs.
Excellent communication and documentation skills, capable of engaging with technical and non-technical stakeholders alike to ensure clear understanding and alignment on integration strategies.
Experience building CLIs or software installers
Experience with CUE
Experience with simulation software

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Shield AI

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Shield AI is committed to applying artificial intelligence for autonomous drone and aircraft operations, focusing on applications in the defense sector as well as potential commercial uses. This company is distinguished by its forward-thinking in autonomous flight technology, particularly with its AI pilot system, Hivemind, which enables operation without GPS, communications, or human pilots. Its collaborations with the U.S. Department of Defense and ongoing field deployments in various combat scenarios illustrate the company’s role in leading technological advancement in AI flight systems, making it an ideal workplace for those passionate about cutting-edge AI and aerospace technology.

Company Stage

Series F

Total Funding

$940.7M

Headquarters

San Diego, California

Founded

2015

Growth & Insights

Headcount

6 month growth

↑ 12%

1 year growth

↑ 34%

2 year growth

↑ 118%

Benefits

Medical Insurance Coverage

Long Term Disability Insurance

Health Care FSA and Dependent Care FSA

Employee Assistance Program

Subsidized Gym Membership

Pet Insurance

Competitive Compensation

Retirement Services

Life Insurance

Parental Leave

Bereavement Support

Flexible Work Hours

PTO

Paid Holidays

Commuter Benefits

Relaxed Dress Code

Yearly Swag Items

Unlimited Snacks

Bottomless Beverages

Annual Celebrations

Work From Home Benefits

Standing Desks and Widescreen Monitors