Staff Software Engineer, GCS - Full Stack (R5192)

Shield AI is seeking a Staff Software Engineer, GCS - Full Stack (R5192) to join its Flight System Integration team. The successful candidate will work on building modern, web-based GCS applications, advanced mission planners, post-mission debrief utilities, and general C2 interfaces.

The Ground Control Station (GCS) and Command & Control (C2) Software team builds mission planning, command & control, and post-mission debrief systems that enable operators to manage complex, multi-domain unmanned missions.

Responsibilities:

• Develop & Field Web-Based GCS/C2 Software: Design, develop, and optimize high-performance, responsive GCS software and C2 applications using modern web technologies such as React, TypeScript, Node.js, and Go.
• Technical Leadership: Own technical direction for major GCS features and full-stack subsystems; architect frontend/backend architectures, design robust APIs, and lead technical decision-making.
• Collaboration Across Teams: Act as a primary technical interface with the Autonomy Capabilities team, Perception team, flight operations, and external partners.
• Mentorship & Growth: Mentor mid-level engineers on the team; partner with managers on onboarding, leveling, and growth planning.
• Design, UX, & Documentation: Drive design reviews, UI/UX prototyping, and API/ICD definitions; champion modern frontend and backend development practices.
• Pre-deployment Preparation: Own the build, configuration, and validation process for mission-ready ground stations and C2 web servers.
• On-site Test & Mission Support: Travel to test sites and support live mission operations.
• System Debugging & Performance Tuning: Diagnose and resolve integration issues across GCS/C2 stacks, radio links, and telemetry streams.
• Mission Data & Debrief Support: Architect and implement post-mission debrief utilities and telemetry analysis tools.
• Continuous Improvement: Build tools and automation scripts to improve C2 deployment pipelines, test/mission reliability, and simulation-based operator testing.
• C2 Interoperability & Standards: Own compliance and integration with command-and-control standards and architectures.
• Hiring: Interview candidates, help define the skills bar for open roles, and onboard new engineers.

Requirements:

• BS/MS in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.
• Minimum of 7 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 6 years and a Master’s degree; or 4 years with a PhD; or equivalent work experience.
• Experience with modern frontend frameworks and building rich, interactive user experiences in responsive web-based applications.
• Experience with full-stack or building backend in C/C++, Python, TypeScript, or Go.
• Deep familiarity with networked and distributed systems.
• Experience using AI-assisted development tools.
• Experience working with databases.
• Demonstrated experience owning a major software capability or system from architecture through field delivery.
• Track record of mentoring engineers and growing technical talent.
• Experience authoring or negotiating interface contracts, API specifications, or ICDs.
• Strong debugging and profiling skills.
• Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), web mapping libraries, and 2D/3D spatial data visualization.
• Familiarity with video streaming protocols and multimedia frameworks.
• Experience developing post-mission telemetry analysis, log parsing, or interactive web-based playback/debrief systems.
• Experience with containerization and orchestration.
• Experience with platform control / autopilot protocols or DoD C2 standards.
• Experience working closely with flight operators, pilots, or military stakeholders.