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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Software Engineer, Autonomy Capabilities - **Company:** Lever, Inc. - **Location:** San Mateo, CA, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $195,840.0 - $293,760.0 - **Contract:** Temporary contract - **Skills:** Artificial Intelligence, Data Analysis, C++ (Programming Language), Iterative and Incremental Development, Python (Programming Language), Machine Learning, Motion Planning, Performance Tuning, Real-Time Operating Systems, Reinforcement Learning, Multi-Agent Systems, SC Clearance, Information Technology - **Published:** September 2, 2026 - **Apply:** https://jobs.lever.co/shieldai/39dff357-4eda-48fb-97b7-2bc14f0908b6/apply ## About the Role * BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, and/or similar degree, or equivalent practical experience * 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. * Proficiency in programming languages such as C++ and Python, and familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS) * Significant background in one or several robotic technology areas related to control systems, motion planning, optimization, tactical behaviors, and/or distributed decision-making * Significant experience with unmanned system technologies and accompanying algorithms (ideally in the space domain specifically) * Experience with simulation tools and environments (e.g., AFSIM, NGTS, or similar) for testing and validation * Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot and optimize system performance * Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment * Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance or higher, * Experience in multiple aerospace domains (e.g., air, land, sea, space) * Experience across a breadth of methodologies from classical control through optimization and applied ML/RL * Background in collaborative behaviors and swarm robotics * Familiarity with domain-relevant DoD or government programs * Hands-on experience supporting integration events, customer demos, and/or live exercises ## Description * Tactical Autonomy Design - Design tactical autonomy algorithms to enable unmanned aircraft to perform complex missions across air, land, and sea domains with minimal human supervision. * High-Performance Software Development - Develop high-performance software modules that incorporate planning, decision-making, and behavior execution strategies for dynamic and adversarial environments. * Behavior Architecture Implementation - Implement and test behavior architectures that enable multi-agent coordination, target engagement, reconnaissance, and survivability in contested scenarios. * Hybrid Autonomy Integration - Work at the intersection of classical autonomy and machine learning, blending rule-based systems with learning-based methods such as reinforcement learning to achieve robust, adaptive behavior. * Cross-Functional Collaboration - Collaborate with cross-functional teams including perception, planning, simulation, hardware, and flight test to ensure seamless integration of autonomy solutions on real-world platforms. * Deployment & Field Testing - Deploy autonomy capabilities to real platforms and participate in field tests and flight demos, validating performance in operationally relevant conditions. * Mission Data Analysis - Analyze mission logs and performance data to diagnose failures, optimize behavior models, and inform iterative development. * R&D and Roadmapping - Contribute to the autonomy roadmap by researching and prototyping new algorithms, identifying tactical capability gaps, and proposing novel solutions that advance Shield AI's mission. * Program Support & Adaptation - Support defense-focused programs and customer needs by adapting autonomy solutions to evolving mission sets, compliance requirements, and operational feedback. * Travel Requirement - Members of this team typically travel around 10-15% of the year (to different office locations, customer sites, and flight integration events). ## Related Videos - [Shift Left On Accessibility - Geri Reid](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1712-shift-left-on-accessibility-geri-reid) - [Data Science in Retail](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/586-data-science-in-retail) - [Robots are coming into the wild! 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