Software Development Engineer - New Graduate
Shield AI · San Diego, California
Posted October 6, 2026
Job Description
We are seeking Autonomous Software Engineers for full-time roles starting in 2027! This is a paid, in-person, full-time position for students graduating during the 2026-2027 academic year. We are now reviewing applications for positions starting after graduation in 2027.
What you'll do
-
Design, implement, test, and ship C++ and/or Python features, tools, and tests alongside experienced engineers.
-
Write embedded firmware in C/C++ for real-time software that controls our advanced UAV while in flight.
-
Develop tests, reporters, and tooling in Python to validate software behavior and performance.
-
Develop and evaluate autonomy software across areas such as mission behavior, planning, multi-agent coordination, decision-making, platform integration, or perception (object detection, tracking, sensor fusion, localization, situational awareness, or AI/ML-enabled workflows).
-
Build unit and integration tests, run and analyze simulation or bench results, and investigate failures using logs, telemetry, traces, and debugging tools.
-
Support software integration across autonomy capabilities, platform/vehicle interfaces, sensors, perception products, mission compute, and operator or command-and-control (C2) systems, including simulation, software-in-the-loop, hardware-in-the-loop, and bench testing.
-
Work with real and simulated data from cameras, EO/IR sensors, IMUs, GPS, radars, or other mission payloads.
-
Work cross-functionally with electrical and mechanical engineers to help determine and validate software requirements.
-
Write documentation for setup steps, interface assumptions, configuration, test procedures, and findings to make workflows repeatable.
-
Participate in code reviews, design discussions, and test debriefs, and take on more ownership of features and fixes over time.
More jobs at Shield AI
Loads and Dynamics Analyst (R5841 - TX/DC)
Shield AI · Dallas, Texas · On-site · $145k - $220k
Chief Engineer, Air Vehicle Lead - MMA
Shield AI · Seattle, Washington · On-site · $250k - $340k
Capture Team Lead – Poland (X-BAT Programme)
Shield AI · Warsaw · Hybrid
Staff Engineer, Advanced Manufacturing (R4968)
Shield AI · Seattle, Washington · On-site · $155k - $230k
Associate Engineer, Manufacturing
Shield AI · Seattle, Washington · On-site · $105k - $160k
See how well your resume matches this job before you apply
Run a free ATS check