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Senior Staff Engineer, Systems Integration (R5415)

Shield AI
Actively Hiring
San Diego, Californiafull_time$212K - $318KPosted 3 weeks ago
Hivemind Solutions DivisionSystems Integration
About This Role
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, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. 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. 

This position is ideal for a C++ generalist who thrives on tackling complex challenges in systems and systems integration. If you enjoy building cross-language software, improving CI/CD pipelines, and integrating distributed real-time systems, you’ll find this role rewarding. Join a team that’s driving innovation through robust software engineering and practical integration work across simulation environments, third-party systems, and development workflows.

What You'll Do:

  • Design, implement, and maintain C++ and Python software in support of complex, cross-platform systems.
  • Contribute to system architecture with a focus on performance, maintainability, and integration.
  • Develop and support APIs and messaging interfaces (e.g., gRPC, REST, ZeroMQ).
  • Integrate third-party software and hardware systems, including real-time and simulation tools.
  • Debug and support distributed systems, with attention to threading, timing, and data flow.
  • Apply modern agile practices such as test-driven development, continuous integration, and automated testing.
  • Improve and maintain CI/CD workflows using tools like GitLab CI, Docker, CMake, and Conan.
  • Collaborate across teams and projects to share solutions and promote good software practices.
  • Continuously learn and adapt to new tools, standards, and technologies.

Required Qualifications:

  • Typically requires a minimum of 5 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 4 years and a Master’s degree; or 2 years with a PhD; or equivalent work experience.
  • Strong proficiency in modern C++ (C++14/17/20) with the ability to work effectively in legacy codebases (C++98/03).
  • Proficiency in Linux/Unix environments, including system-level development and debugging tools.
  • Experience with Python.
  • Professional experience in Linux environments (Windows experience is a bonus).
  • Solid understanding of system-level engineering and design patterns.
  • Experience in a collaborative environment with CI/CD and test automation.
  • Experience with containerization technologies such as Docker.
  • Active SECRET clearance.
  • Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience integrating distributed simulation environments such as AFSIM or NGTS.
  • Familiarity with open standards like UCI and OMS, and an understanding of data buses and interface protocols common in avionics and aircraft systems.
  • Familiarity with simulation tools and modeling frameworks.
  • Experience with networking concepts and messaging infrastructure.
  • Hands-on experience with CMake, Conan, and GitLab CI/CD pipelines.
  • Exposure to real-time systems and hardware/software integration.
  • Ability to obtain a TS/SCI clearance.
  • Ready to apply?

    This role is listed by Shield AI. You'll finish your application on their site.

    Apply on Shield AI
    Eligibility & work details

    Work authorization

    No U.S. person or export-control requirement stated in this listing.

    Work arrangement

    On-siteSan Diego, California, US

    Travel

    No travel indicated in this listing.

    Estimated application time

    ~2 min to start on the employer site

    Eligibility details are interpreted from the job listing to help you gauge fit. Always confirm citizenship, clearance, and certification requirements with the employer before applying.

    About Shield AI

    Defense technology company building AI pilots for aircraft

    Defense AI
    San Diego, CA
    500-1000 employees
    View Company Profile
    Job Summary
    Employment Typefull_time
    DepartmentHivemind Solutions Division
    CategorySystems Integration
    Salary Range$212K - $318K
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