Senior Communications Engineer (Hiring at Multiple Levels)

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.

Shield AI is seeking a Communications Systems Engineer to lead the design, integration, and optimization of advanced communication systems for our next-generation autonomous aircraft.

This is a high-impact role where you will be responsible for mission-critical data links, encryption, and secure communications, ensuring seamless interoperability between airborne, sensor, ground, and satellite systems. You will work across sensor fusion, RF systems, SATCOM, and AI-driven data processing to deliver an aircraft capable of operating in contested environments with low latency and high reliability.

What you'll do:

• Lead the development and integration of data links, encryption, and secure communication architectures into the aircraft platform.

• Define system-level requirements and architectures for RF, SATCOM, optical, and software-defined radio (SDR) communication systems.

• Optimize low-latency, high-bandwidth data transfer and encryption to ensure mission-critical performance.

• Ensure seamless connectivity between the aircraft, command centers, and satellite networks, enhancing real-time data transmission and autonomy.

• Develop AI-driven sensor fusion algorithms to enhance payload performance in high-threat environments.

• Collaborate with avionics, software, and autonomy teams to ensure robust and secure system integration.

• Validate performance through simulation, flight testing, and field deployments.

• Work with DoD stakeholders and compliance teams to ensure mission readiness and adherence to cybersecurity standards

Required qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.

• 8+ years of experience in RF communications or mission systems integration for UAVs or military aircraft.

• Strong expertise in RF systems, satellite communications (SATCOM), tactical data links (Link-16, CDL), and sensor integration.

• Proficiency in software-defined radio (SDR) technologies and secure, encrypted data transmission.

• Experience writing specifications for communications subsystems and architectures.

• Knowledge of MIL-STD-1553, ARINC 429, and other aerospace data bus standards.

• Experience working with classified communication protocols and DoD compliance.

• Active Secret clearance.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with AI-enhanced signal processing and sensor fusion for ISR missions.

• Background in low-observable (stealth) communications architectures.

• Familiarity with electronic warfare (EW) and RF threat mitigation techniques.

• Experience supporting DoD or intelligence community mission operations.

• Active Top Secret clearance or eligible to achieve, as well as SCI eligible.
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