Principal Engineer, Payloads & Communications

About Shield AI

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company focused on protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its flagship autonomy software, Hivemind, powers aircraft, drones, and other platforms, enabling complex missions with high reliability in contested environments. With offices in San Diego, Dallas, Washington, D.C., and internationally, Shield AI’s products actively support U.S. and allied operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn,Twitter, and Instagram.

Job Description:

Shield AI is seeking a Principal Engineer, Payloads & Communications to lead the design, integration, and optimization of advanced payload and communication systems for our next-generation autonomous aircraft.

This is a high-impact role where you will be responsible for mission-critical sensor payloads, data links, encryption, and secure communications, ensuring seamless interoperability between airborne, ground, and satellite systems. You will work across sensor fusion, RF systems, SATCOM, ISR payload integration, and AI-driven data processing to deliver an aircraft capable of operating in contested environments with low latency and high reliability.

What You'll Do:

• Lead the development and integration of sensor payloads, ISR systems, and secure communication architectures into the aircraft platform.
• Define system-level requirements and architectures for RF, SATCOM, optical, and software-defined radio (SDR) communication systems.
• Optimize low-latency, high-bandwidth data transfer and encryption to ensure mission-critical performance.
• Ensure seamless connectivity between the aircraft, command centers, and satellite networks, enhancing real-time data transmission and autonomy.
• Develop AI-driven sensor fusion algorithms to enhance payload performance in high-threat environments.
• Collaborate with avionics, software, and autonomy teams to ensure robust and secure system integration.
• Validate payload performance through simulation, flight testing, and field deployments.
• Work with DoD stakeholders and compliance teams to ensure mission readiness and adherence to cybersecurity standards.

Required qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
• 10+ years of experience in RF communications, ISR payloads, or mission systems integration for UAVs or military aircraft.
• Strong expertise in RF systems, satellite communications (SATCOM), tactical data links (Link-16, CDL), and sensor integration.
• Proficiency in software-defined radio (SDR) technologies and secure, encrypted data transmission.
• Experience designing ISR and surveillance payload architectures, including EO/IR sensors, radar, and signal processing.
• Knowledge of MIL-STD-1553, ARINC 429, and other aerospace data bus standards.
• Experience working with classified communication protocols and DoD compliance.
• US Citizenship required due to security clearance requirements.

Preferred qualifications:

• Experience working with AI-enhanced signal processing and sensor fusion for ISR missions.
• Background in low-observable (stealth) communications architectures.
• Familiarity with electronic warfare (EW) and RF threat mitigation techniques.
• Experience supporting DoD or intelligence community mission operations.

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Total package details for U.S. based positions:

- 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

Total package details for International positions which are roles based outside of the United States (where applicable):

- International premium, hardship differential, cost of living differential, living quarters allowance, foreign service transfer

allowance, equity, international benefits, visa assistance, and relocation assistance.

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.

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.