hackajob is collaborating with Shield AI to connect them with exceptional tech professionals for this role.
Senior Software Engineer – Ground Control Station (GCS)
Company : Shield AI
Location : Dallas, San Diego, Washington D.C.
Salary : $128,045 – $192,067
About Shield AI
Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense tech company creating AI pilots for
autonomous aircraft, including F-16, V-BAT, and Nova. Our mission-focused AI systems
protect service members and civilians, with our Hivemind AI actively deployed in
operational environments worldwide.
Why Join Us?
- Work on cutting-edge AI systems for autonomous aircraft.
- Build software that operators use directly in the field.
- Collaborate with top engineers in autonomy, embedded systems, and UX.
- Be part of a fast-paced, mission-driven environment that values innovation and
impact.
Role Overview
We’re seeking a Senior Software Engineer to join our Ground Control Station (GCS) team.
You’ll design, build, and deploy real-time, performance-critical software powering mission
planning, control, and telemetry visualization for autonomous UAS platforms. This role is
ideal for engineers who enjoy complex, cross-disciplinary work and seeing their solutions
used in real-world missions.
What You’ll Do
Design, implement, and validate new GCS features from concept to fielddeployment.
Develop low-latency software for planning, control, and telemetry visualization.Build responsive, operator-focused UIs using React and TypeScript integrated withNode.js or C++ services.
Collaborate with autonomy, embedded, UX, and test teams to refine requirements.Gather operator feedback and ensure real-world mission reliability.Participate in system architecture reviews, testing, and performance optimization.Mentor junior engineers and contribute to code / design reviews.Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s + 5 yrs, Master’s + 4 yrs, or PhD + 2 yrs experience.Experience with real-time or performance-critical systems (UAVs, robotics,autonomous vehicles, simulators).
Proficiency in TypeScript / JavaScript, Java, C#, C++, or Rust.Familiarity with React, HTML, CSS, Node.js.Strong knowledge of real-time communication protocols (WebSocket, UDP,telemetry formats).
Track record of delivering reliable software in fast-paced environments.Excellent collaboration and communication skills.Preferred Qualifications
Experience with mission planning, GCS, or real-time visualization tools.Knowledge of STANAG 4586, CoT, or MAVLink.Experience with distributed systems or cloud-based telemetry pipelines.Familiarity with Docker, Kubernetes, and cybersecurity concepts in mission-criticalsystems.
Perks & Benefits
Work with a mission-driven team making a real-world impact.Opportunity to innovate with cutting-edge AI and autonomous systems.Collaborative, high-performing culture with mentorship opportunities.