Shield AI is looking to solve the problem of enabling autonomous aircraft to operate effectively in complex and contested environments by developing advanced perception systems.
Requirements
- Background in implementing algorithms such as Kalman Filters, multi-target tracking, or deep learning-based detection models.
- Familiarity with fusing data from radar, EO/IR cameras, or other sensors using probabilistic or rule-based approaches.
- Familiarity with SLAM, visual-inertial odometry, or sensor-fused localization approaches in real-time applications.
- Ability to interpret and work with Interface Control Documents (ICDs) and hardware integration specs.
- Proficiency with version control, debugging, and test-driven development in cross-functional teams.
- Hands-on integration or algorithm development with airborne sensing systems.
- Experience with ML frameworks such as PyTorch or Tensorflow, particularly for vision-based object detection or classification tasks.
Responsibilities
- Lead teams across autonomy, integration, and testing by aligning technical efforts, resolving cross-functional challenges, and driving mission-focused execution.
- Develop advanced perception algorithms — Design and implement robust algorithms for object detection, classification, and multi-target tracking across diverse sensor modalities.
- Implement sensor fusion frameworks — Integrate data from vision systems, radars, and other mission sensors using probabilistic and deterministic fusion techniques to generate accurate situational awareness.
- Develop state estimation capabilities — Design and refine algorithms for localization and pose estimation using IMU, GPS, vision, and other onboard sensing inputs to enable stable and accurate navigation.
- Analyze and utilize sensor ICDs — Interpret interface control documents (ICDs) and technical specifications for aircraft-mounted sensors to ensure correct data handling, interpretation, and synchronization.
- Optimize perception performance — Tune and evaluate perception pipelines for performance, robustness, and real-time efficiency in both simulation and real-world environments.
- Support autonomy integration — Work closely with autonomy, systems, and integration teams to interface perception outputs with planning, behaviors, and decision-making modules.
Other
- Multidisciplinary Team Leadership
- Balance hands-on technical oversight with performance optimization, innovation, and clear stakeholder communication.
- Travel Requirement – Members of this team typically travel around 10-15% of the year (to different office locations, customer sites, and flight integration events).
- Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance.
- BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, and/or similar degree, or equivalent practical experience
