Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent, autonomous systems. Its products include Hivemind Enterprise—EdgeOS, Pilot, Commander, and Forge—as well as V-BAT and Sentient Vision Systems (wide-area motion imaging software). With offices in San Diego, Dallas, Washington, D.C., Abu Dhabi (UAE), Kyiv (Ukraine), and Melbourne (Australia), Shield AI’s technology actively supports U.S. and allied operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X and Instagram.

Job Description:

Shield AI is redefining autonomous aviation with cutting-edge AI and GPS/RF-denied navigation technologies. Now, we’re building a next-generation aircraft like no other—one that will push the boundaries of innovation and performance. We’re looking for a Director of Avionics to take ownership of all aspects of the avionics system and lead our engineering team from concept to production. If you thrive in fast-paced environments, excel in cross-functional leadership, and are passionate about building high-performance avionics, we want to hear from you.

Job Description:

What you'll do:

Own the avionics system. Define and execute the vision of our next generation aircraft from concept through production

Build, lead, and mentor a world-class avionics engineering team

Establish and enforce appropriate design processes

Maintain technical excellence—implement rigorous design processes and ensure compliance with industry standards.

Ensure system performance meets requirements and design expectations

Collaborate cross-functionally with Shield’s core teams, such as engineering, production, supply chain, business development, and program management

Engage with external partners – coordinate with vendors and engineering teams as needed

Work in a fast-paced environment

Required qualifications:

10+ years of aerospace engineering experience, ideally with a strong background in avionics system design and integration

4+ years of leadership experience

Strong technical fundamentals

Knowledge of industry standards, including DO and MIL-STD avionics design and certification processes

Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

#LI-JM2

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Full-time regular employee offer package:

Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity

Temporary employee offer package:

Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)

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. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.

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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.

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Director, Avionics Engineering

What you'll do:

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