Embedded Engineer, Software Test & Automation (R2654)

Introduction to Shield AI

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company whose mission is to protect service members and civilians with intelligent systems. In pursuit of this mission, Shield AI is building the world’s best AI pilot. Its AI pilot, Hivemind, has flown a fighter jet (F-16), a vertical takeoff and landing drone (V-BAT), and a quadcopter (Nova). The company has offices in San Diego, Dallas, Washington DC and abroad. Shield AI’s products and people are currently in the field actively supporting operations with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. allies. 

The Aircraft Software Test & Automation team is an ambitious, driven group of engineers focused on testing complex aircraft software integrated onto vehicles and various hardware systems. The team is a cross-functional group of test engineers, software developers, flight engineers, and embedded engineers; working closely with our Embedded, GNC (Guidance, Navigation & Controls),and System Test teams, the Software Test & Automation team is chartered to provide (1) rigorous, but fast testing and (2) an advanced & robust test infrastructure for all aircraft software. Shield AI is building groundbreaking aircraft technologies, this team provides the complex testing & innovative capabilities required to get us there.

As an Embedded Software Engineer on Software Test & Automation, you will develop and maintain test & automation capabilities for all aircraft software. You will write code that interfaces with avionics and HIL fixtures, code that adds-to or interfaces-with our simulation tools, and technical documents that present software designs, development/test plans, and verification reports. You will marshal the entire development process of your solutions, alongside our aircraft development schedules; ensuring test capabilities exist on time & on target.

• Develop high-quality C/C++ code tailored specifically for enabling or automating testing of V-BAT aircraft systems, ensuring optimal fidelity, efficiency, and safety of software testing.
• Develop innovative tools to enhance the frequency and reliability of software deployment, test execution, and data analysis within a continuous integration and release system.
• Lead cross-functional teams to develop closed-loop-simulation and hardware-emulation capabilities, serving as the primary contributor for software implementation.
• Develop test-harnesses to-control or similar software tools to-provision operating systems, modern avionics sensors, MCU controlled sub-systems, and various payloads.
• Integrate software from multiple departments to build and verify your test/automation solutions, including software for Autonomy/AI, Ground Control Stations, avionics, and sensor payload systems.
• Engage in system engineering development practices for our aircraft products, understand the system and derived needs for test coverage and test infrastructure
• Work with test engineers on the team to design and automate test cases for embedded software & applications
• Develop high-quality python code to automate tests, create modern testing tools, and prototype capabilities to unblock teams and/or optimize lab procedures
• Participate in architecture, design, and code reviews
• Report status, risks, accomplishments, expectations to senior leadership    
• Create test infrastructure prototypes to unblock early product testing and assess technical limitations of our test capabilities

• Demonstrated track record of assuming ownership over development processes and features and delivering outstanding outcomes  
• 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 V-BAT reliability
• Strong embedded software development experience in C/C++ 
• Proficiency writing software in python or other similarly versatile languages (e.g. JavaScript)
• Good understanding of computer architecture, operating systems, and network protocols fundamentals 
• Experience producing high-quality technical documentation, including architecture, detailed designs, and test plans   
• 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 

• Experience working on cutting-edge autonomous robotic systems  
• Proven background in thriving within fast-paced environments, particularly within startup or R&D settings 
• Experience working with sensor/camera systems and/or simulation software

#LI-AC1  

#LB

Total package details:

Regular employee positions: Salary within range listed above + Bonus + Benefits + Equity

Temporary employee positions: Hourly within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)

*Interns/Military Fellows/Part-time not eligible for bonus, benefits or equity

Actual 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.

If you're interested in being part of our team, apply now! 

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.