
Job Overview
Location
San Diego, California
Job Type
Full-time
Category
Engineering
Date Posted
May 21, 2026
Full Job Description
đź“‹ Description
- • As a Principal Engineer, Systems at Shield AI, you will lead the design, integration, and validation of complex aerospace systems for advanced unmanned aircraft platforms, directly contributing to the mission of protecting service members and civilians through intelligent autonomous systems.
- • Day to day, you will oversee system architecture development, lead cross-functional engineering teams in requirements definition and verification, conduct trade studies for performance and reliability, and ensure seamless integration of avionics, propulsion, and software subsystems across V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft programs.
- • Shield AI is a venture-backed deep-tech innovator headquartered in San Diego with global operations, dedicated to advancing AI-piloted aircraft for national security and humanitarian missions, fostering a culture of technical excellence, rapid iteration, and mission-driven engineering.
- • In this role, you will deepen your expertise in systems engineering for autonomous aerial platforms, influence the technical direction of next-generation defense systems, mentor senior engineers, and gain end-to-end ownership of complex aerospace programs from concept to fielded capability.
🏖️ Benefits
- • Competitive salary and equity compensation
- • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
- • 401(k) plan with company matching
- • Generous paid time off and company holidays
- • Opportunities for professional development and technical training
- • Collaborative, mission-focused work environment with cutting-edge technology
Skills & Technologies
About Shield AI, Inc.
Shield AI develops autonomous systems and artificial intelligence for defense and commercial aviation. Its Hivemind AI pilot enables unmanned aircraft and drones to operate without GPS, communications, or remote pilots. The company’s products include the V-BAT vertical takeoff and landing drone and software for fighter aircraft autonomy. Founded in 2015, Shield AI serves U.S. and allied military forces, focusing on contested environments and battlefield applications. The company integrates machine learning, sensor fusion, and edge computing to provide resilient, intelligent platforms for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike missions.
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