Senior Engineer, Systems Test (R3378)

As a Senior Engineer, Systems Test at Shield AI, your role encompasses a variety of exciting responsibilities focused on testing and integration of software and hardware systems. You'll plan and execute testing protocols to ensure the performance and reliability of our Hivemind software, support on-site flight testing, and engage in hands-on debugging during test campaigns. You'll also write Python code for testing complex systems and contribute to the development of automated test tools that enhance our testing efficiency. Your work will directly support achieving mission objectives in real-world aviation scenarios.

To qualify for the Senior Engineer, Systems Test role at Shield AI, candidates should typically possess a minimum of 5 years of related experience, ideally with a Bachelor’s degree or higher. Proficiency in Python is essential, and experience with robotics or UAS projects is highly valued. Furthermore, candidates must have excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to work collaboratively in cross-functional engineering teams. A SECRET clearance, or the ability to obtain one, is also a requirement for this position.

At Shield AI, the Senior Engineer, Systems Test employs various testing methodologies aimed at validating and verifying the Hivemind software and hardware systems. This includes both manual and scripted testing approaches, continuous integration and testing during the Software Development Life Cycle, and utilizing Hardware-In-The-Loop (HIL) systems for thorough evaluation. You will also engage in real-time analysis during flight tests, using data dashboards to track test results and improve methodologies continually.

The Senior Engineer, Systems Test plays a pivotal role in Shield AI's mission to protect service members and civilians through advanced technology. By ensuring the highest standards of quality and reliability in our AI pilot systems through rigorous testing and validation, you help facilitate successful flight test events that embody our commitment to innovation in defense technology. Your contributions enhance the operational readiness of our systems, directly supporting U.S. and allied operations across the globe.

At Shield AI, the Senior Engineer, Systems Test can look forward to a dynamic career path filled with potential advancements. Due to the innovative nature of our work and the emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, you would have opportunities to transition into lead roles, project management, or even specialize further in different technical domains. Additionally, mentoring new engineers and contributing to the strategic development of test protocols can elevate your position within our expanding organization.

When answering this question, focus on specific projects where you've successfully integrated and tested software and hardware systems. Detail methodologies you've employed, outcomes from your testing, and any challenges you overcame. Highlight how your efforts improved system reliability or assisted in meeting critical flight milestones, tying your experience back to the technologies similar to those used by Shield AI.

To answer this, outline your approach to debugging, emphasizing tools or strategies you’ve used in the past. Discuss how you identify software defects, your process of testing and retesting, and any specific examples where your debugging skills led to successful problem resolutions. Mention familiarity with tools like Git or similar management software where applicable.

Discuss your method for assessing the criticality of each test case with respect to system objectives. Explain how you determine which tests have the highest risk levels associated with failure and adapt your testing schedule accordingly. Mention communication with team members and collaboration in prioritizing workload, as this reflects effective teamwork skills.

Be honest about your proficiency in programming languages relevant to the role, particularly Python and C++. Discuss specific scenarios where you've utilized these languages for writing test scripts or developing testing utilities. Mention any frameworks you’ve worked with for automated testing, showcasing your programming skills.

To respond effectively, provide a specific example where you analyzed real or simulated flight data. Describe the process you followed to detect anomalies, your findings, and how those insights promoted improvements or changes in the system being tested. Highlight collaboration with other engineering teams to resolve the issue.

In your answer, mention resources like industry publications, online courses, or participation in relevant workshops. Discuss any professional networks or groups that you’re a part of, specifically related to aerospace or software testing communities, indicating your commitment to continuous learning and improvement. Highlight any recent training or certifications you've pursued.

Share your experiences with software management tools such as Jira, Git, or Azure DevOps. Describe how you leverage these tools to ensure transparency in project progress, document test cases, and communicate results with your team. This shows not only your technical ability but also your organizational skills.

Provide an example of a specific project where you collaborated with teams from different engineering disciplines. Highlight challenges faced, how you overcame communication gaps, and successes achieved as a unit. Emphasize the value of teamwork in achieving common goals and how it aligns with the culture at Shield AI.

Take this opportunity to showcase your knowledge of Hivemind by discussing its features, applications, and importance within the defense technology domain. If possible, relate how prior experiences might connect to their use cases. Such insights demonstrate your readiness to contribute effectively to the role.

In answering this question, reflect on your passion for innovation in defense technology and explain how the mission and values of Shield AI resonate with you. Describe what excites you about the opportunity to work on intelligent aircraft systems and how your previous experiences make you a strong fit for the role. Enthusiasm for the company's mission can make a strong impression.