Software Engineering Intern - 2025 Summer Intern

Introduction to Shield AI

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company whose mission is to protect service members and civilians with intelligent systems. In pursuit of this mission, Shield AI is building the world’s best AI pilot. Its AI pilot, Hivemind, has flown a fighter jet (F-16), a vertical takeoff and landing drone (V-BAT), and a quadcopter (Nova). The company has offices in San Diego, Dallas, Washington DC and abroad. Shield AI’s products and people are currently in the field actively supporting operations with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. allies. 

Job Description:

Our 2025 Summer Internship program is a wonderful opportunity for rising 2026 graduates to immerse themselves in an innovative and mission driven culture. Our 10-week paid internship program will provide you with hands on mentorship, an opportunity to add real contribution to our company via your internship project, and a possible job offer at the end. You will have the chance to make lifelong friendships, expand your network, and learn all about what it's like to work in a high-growth, fast scaling tech unicorn. You'll take part in company sponsored events and enjoy exploring a new city. Read on below to learn more about this unique internship!

The Aircraft Software Test & Automation team is an ambitious, driven group of engineers focused on testing complex aircraft software integrated onto vehicles and various hardware systems. The team is a cross-functional group of test engineers, software developers, flight engineers, and embedded engineers; working closely with our Embedded, GNC (Guidance, Navigation & Controls),and System Test teams, the Software Test & Automation team is chartered to provide (1) rigorous, but fast testing and (2) an advanced & robust test infrastructure for all aircraft software. Shield AI is building groundbreaking aircraft technologies, this team provides the complex testing & innovative capabilities required to get us there.

10 Week Project Scope & Description:

• Collaborate with industry leading AI and software engineers to design and implement software products 
• Assist in creating software infrastructure that allows for rapid development of new testcases, utilizing common code wherever possible.
• Solve novel challenges in AI product development, involving sensors, autonomous flights, and robotics integration 
• Work on impactful projects, with meaningful work and a mentor to guide you 
• Gain professional experience in product development and software engineering 
• Other duties as assigned.

Required qualifications:

• You are an undergraduate, graduate or PhD student expected to graduate in December 2025 or Spring 2026.
• Pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Systems Engineering, Software Engineering, or related STEM field. 
• Strong understanding of fundamental engineering concepts, including EE, Mech E, Programming, Physics, and Mathematics.
• Experience working on multidisciplinary hardware development projects, which can be from an internship, job, club, team, personal project, etc.
• Great written and verbal communication.
• Demonstrated history of showing ownership of project outcomes and delivering exceptional results. 
• Record of working hard, being a trustworthy teammate, holding yourself and others to high standards, and being kind to others.

Intern Program Dates:

June 2nd - Aug 8th

OR

June 23rd - Aug 29th

*You MUST be available to start on EITHER June 2nd or June 23rd.

#intern

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 based positions (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.