Full-Time

Chief Engineer

Autonomy

Confirmed live in the last 24 hours

Shield AI

Shield AI

501-1,000 employees

Develops AI and autonomous systems for defense

AI & Machine Learning
Defense

Compensation Overview

$194.7k - $292kAnnually

+ Bonus + Benefits + Equity

Senior, Expert

Washington, DC, USA

Position requires onsite presence in the Washington DC metro area.

US Citizenship, US Top Secret Clearance Required

Category
Robotics & Autonomous Systems
AI & Machine Learning
Requirements
  • BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering, and/or similar degree
  • 10+ years of industry experience in autonomy and/or UAS platforms (e.g., defense tech, self-driving car, etc.)
  • 7+ years of delivering software into production environments with high-reliability and high uptime (e.g., thousands of users, 99% uptime)
  • Understanding of the full robotics autonomy stack (e.g., controls, estimation, perception, planning, etc.)
  • Understanding of core machine learning concepts ranging from simple, binary supervised learning to the state-of-the-art in reinforcement learning
  • Understanding of software development processes and how to effectively deploy software to real world devices.
  • Understanding of autonomous behavior development and required sensor integration
  • Experience defining technical scope and managing technical requirements, product architectures, ICDs and other system level design documentation
  • Demonstrate problem solving skills by applying a scientific technical approach
  • Be a customer facing engineering leader supporting government and internally funded development programs
  • Contribute to government contract proposal writing
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Excellent leadership skills, driving a team of 6-20 engineers
  • The ability to obtain and maintain a US Security Clearance. US citizenship is required as only US citizens are eligible for a security clearance.
Responsibilities
  • This person will be the chief engineer on Shield AI projects focused on developing Autonomy and deploying that autonomy to unmanned aircraft.
  • In this role you will be leading a team responsible for both Shield AI (Hivemind) and Department of Defense (DoD) autonomy architectures.
  • The role will consist of assigning technical objectives, making key decisions, and approving the quality and completeness of the technical output. The Technical role will support both IRAD and Department of Defense contracts.

Shield AI specializes in creating artificial intelligence and autonomous systems specifically for the defense industry. The company develops AI-powered systems, including autonomous drones, that assist military operations, especially in environments where GPS and communication may not be available. This technology allows for safer and more efficient defense operations. Shield AI differentiates itself from competitors by focusing on advanced AI capabilities and securing significant contracts with government and military clients, such as the multi-billion dollar EWAAC contract. The company's goal is to enhance operational capabilities and safety in military contexts, ultimately aiming to protect lives through its innovative solutions.

Company Stage

Debt Financing

Total Funding

$772.8M

Headquarters

San Diego, California

Founded

2015

Growth & Insights
Headcount

6 month growth

16%

1 year growth

34%

2 year growth

65%
Simplify Jobs

Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

  • Partnership with JSW Defence expands Shield AI's market presence in India.
  • $198 million U.S. Coast Guard contract highlights Shield AI's ISR service capabilities.
  • Successful multi-aircraft autonomy tests showcase potential for scalable autonomous operations.

What critics are saying

  • Increased competition from companies like Palantir could challenge Shield AI's market position.
  • Reliance on government contracts exposes Shield AI to changes in government spending.
  • Partnership with JSW Defence may face regulatory hurdles and geopolitical tensions.

What makes Shield AI unique

  • Shield AI's Hivemind is the first autonomous AI Pilot deployed in combat since 2018.
  • The company specializes in AI systems for defense, enhancing military operational safety.
  • Shield AI's strategic acquisitions, like Martin UAV, bolster its technological capabilities.

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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