At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to develop cutting-edge autonomy solutions for unmanned aircraft.
- Company: Join Shield AI, a leader in advanced autonomy technology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonuses, benefits, and equity options.
- Other info: Equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in defence tech and shape the future of autonomous systems.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in autonomy or UAS platforms; strong leadership and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
The Chief Engineer at Shield AI is responsible for solving complex technical challenges in deploying advanced autonomy solutions on Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). As the chief authority on system architecture, design, development, risk mitigation, and product quality, the Chief Engineer ensures the successful integration of Hivemind Autonomy across a range of aircraft, from Group 2 propeller aircraft to Group 5 jets. This role is part of the Hivemind Solutions organization and leads a team of engineers to deliver cutting‑edge autonomous capabilities for business‑to‑business and defense contracts. The ideal candidate has defense industry experience as a Chief Engineer and a proven track record of leading technical teams to develop and deploy autonomous systems.
What You’ll Do
- Serve as the Chief Engineer on Shield AI projects focused on developing and deploying autonomy solutions for unmanned aircraft from group 2 to group 5.
- Lead a team responsible for advancing Hivemind Autonomy and shaping defense autonomy architectures.
- Define and assign technical objectives, make key engineering decisions, and ensure the quality and completeness of all technical deliverables.
- Provide technical leadership and oversight across both Internal Research and Development (IRAD) initiatives and defense contracts.
Required Qualifications
- BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering, and/or similar degree.
- 10+ years of industry experience in autonomy and/or UAS platforms (e.g., defense tech, self-driving car, etc.).
- 7+ years of delivering software into production/certifiable environments with high reliability.
- Understanding of guidance, control and navigation (GNC) (e.g., controls, estimation, planning).
- Understanding of robotics stack (e.g., controls, estimation, perception, planning, etc.).
- Understanding of software development processes and how to effectively deploy software.
- Experience defining technical scope and managing technical requirements, product architectures, ICDs and other system-level design documentation.
- Demonstrate problem‑solving skills by applying a scientific technical approach.
- Customer‑facing engineering leader supporting both defense and internally funded development programs.
- Contribute to government contract proposal writing.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Excellent leadership skills, driving a team of 6–20 engineers.
Preferred Qualifications
- UK security clearance.
Benefits
- Full‑time regular employee offer: payment within the listed range, plus bonus, benefits, and equity.
- Temporary employee offer: payment within the listed range above plus a 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.
Equal Opportunity Employment
Shield AI is 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.
Chief Engineer employer: Shield AI
At Shield AI, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation thrives. As the Chief Engineer, you will lead a talented team in developing cutting-edge autonomy solutions for unmanned aircraft, with ample opportunities for professional growth and collaboration on impactful defence projects. Our commitment to employee well-being is reflected in our competitive compensation packages, inclusive culture, and dedication to equal opportunity, making Shield AI a rewarding place to advance your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Engineer
✨Join Aerospace Forums and Groups
Get involved in aerospace engineering forums and online communities, like the AIAA (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics). It's a great way to meet industry peers and stay updated on job openings and trends in the field.
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Keep an eye on upcoming aerospace conferences and events where you can network with professionals and showcase your interest. Events like the Farnborough International Airshow are not just about flying machines; they're a goldmine for connections and potential job leads.
✨Spotlight Your Projects
Make sure to highlight any hands-on experience or projects on your portfolio that showcase your skills in aerospace engineering. Employers love seeing practical applications of theoretical knowledge. Show us what you've got!
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
When you find companies you want to work for, head straight to their careers page to apply for full-time roles, like the one with Shield AI for a Chief Engineer. This often puts your application in front of the right people faster than just waiting for job boards!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for the aerospace engineering role at Shield AI, make sure to highlight your technical expertise. Include specific software skills, like CAD tools or simulation software, and any relevant engineering projects you’ve worked on. This is your chance to really shine and showcase your engineering toolkit!
Don't Skip Your Projects!:Include a section in your CV dedicated to projects that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities in aerospace engineering. Whether it's a university project, an internship, or personal work, we love seeing how you’ve applied your skills in real-world scenarios. Make it clear what your role was and the impact of the project.
Show Your Passion in Your Cover Letter:At Shield AI, we're not just looking for skills – we want to know why you’re passionate about aerospace engineering. Use your cover letter to express what excites you about aviation technology and your career goals. Share any relevant experiences or inspirations that have led you to apply for this full-time position.
Tailor Your CV for Aerospace:Make sure your CV is specifically tailored to aerospace engineering. Focus on your education, any certifications, and your work experience, ensuring you highlight aspects that relate directly to the role. Don’t forget to mention any internships or apprenticeships that have given you hands-on experience.
How to prepare for a job interview at Shield AI
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Aerospace engineering is all about technical precision, so make sure you’re comfortable with key concepts like aerodynamics, propulsion, and materials science. We recommend going through any relevant coursework or projects you’ve worked on – these real-world examples can illustrate your understanding during the interview with Shield AI.
✨Showcase Your Projects with Confidence
Make sure to have a portfolio ready that details any significant projects you've worked on, whether it’s a group assignment or a personal endeavour. Be prepared to discuss the challenges you faced, the tools you used, like CAD software, and what you learned from the experience, as this will show your problem-solving skills in action.
✨Prepare for Technical Interviews
Expect some technical questions or even problem-solving exercises during your interview with Shield AI. Get familiar with design challenges or theoretical problems related to aerospace; this can range from calculating lift and drag forces to materials selection under stress. Practising these can help you feel more at ease when faced with tricky questions.
✨Emphasise Your Passion and Teamwork Skills
As a full-time candidate, it’s crucial to convey your passion for aerospace engineering and your ability to work in teams. Highlight any group projects or internships you've done, focusing on how you collaborated with others to achieve a goal. Companies like Shield AI love seeing candidates who not only have technical skills but also fit well within their team culture.
