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Perform System Architecture & Design: Develop and refine the system architecture for the next gen UAS, ensuring seamless integration of avionics, autonomy, propulsion, sensor payloads, and mission systems.
Define and document system-level behavior, including modes, states, transitions, and fault responses
Support safety analyses (FHA, FMEA, FTA) by defining behavior under fault conditions
Define and Manage System Requirements: Establish top-level requirements, decompose them into subsystems, and maintain traceability across the development lifecycle.
Autonomy & AI Integration: Work closely with autonomy and software teams to integrate AI-driven flight control, decision-making, and mission execution capabilities.
Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE): Utilize SysML, DOORS, or other MBSE tools to create digital system models, conduct trade studies, and optimize system performance.
Risk Management & Trade Studies: Conduct trade studies to evaluate design alternatives, assess technical risks, and ensure the best engineering solutions for mission effectiveness.
Stakeholder & Customer Engagement: Work closely with DoD stakeholders, industry partners, and government agencies to align system capabilities with operational requirements.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with hardware, autonomy, software, propulsion, and flight operations teams to drive seamless system integration and rapid development cycles.
5+ years of experience in systems engineering for aerospace, defense, or autonomous aircraft systems.
Demonstrated experience defining system behavior logic and operational modes
Deep expertise in system architecture, avionics integration, and autonomy-driven flight systems.
Proficiency in MBSE, DOORS, SysML, CAMEO, or similar system modeling tools for complex systems design and analysis.
Experience with Group 4 or Group 5 UAS, military aircraft, or autonomous airborne platforms.
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Strong background in flight testing, system integration, and performance validation.
Knowledge of DoD acquisition processes, MIL-STDs, FAA airworthiness certification, and airborne system safety standards.
Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive complex projects to successful completion.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, agile development environment with shifting priorities.
Worked on developmental program from clean sheet to first flight
Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.
Experience developing AI-driven autonomy for unmanned aircraft.
Expertise in ISR, EW, and advanced sensor integration for airborne platforms.
Familiarity with modular open system architectures (MOSA) and Government Reference Architectures (GRA) for defense applications.
Prior experience working with defense primes, DoD stakeholders, or government R&D programs.
Active Secret or Top Secret clearance (or ability to obtain one).
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Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
Salary 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. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
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.
Full Time Employee
Senior
Onsite
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