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Senior Engineer, Aeronautical Modeling & Simulation (Dallas/San Diego) (R4538)

Dallas, Texas
Full Time On-site

Summary

Job Description

The Software Integration & Operations (SIO) group turns frontier autonomy into mission-ready aircraft. We own the commit-to-flight pipeline—deterministic aircraft and mission simulation, HIL/VIL integration, CI/CD, automated flight qualification testing, and release engineering. Our goal is simple: make AI fly—safely, repeatably, and fast.  
As a Modeling & Simulation Engineer, you will be responsible for improving and adding to our world and aeronautical models so that our operator training and internal engineering pipelines have a seamless translation from sim to real results. 

What You'll Do

  • Develop and enhance aeronautical physics models (aerodynamics, propulsion, environmental, structural, etc.) for use in simulation and evaluation. 
  • Translate theoretical models into efficient, reliable C++ implementations with a focus on numerical accuracy and performance. 
  • Validate models against real-world data and authoritative references, including field test data and calibration procedures. 
  • Collaborate with simulation and training application teams to ensure models integrate cleanly into operator-facing tools. 
  • Design automated validation and regression testing strategies for mathematical models to ensure fidelity across releases. 
  • Prototype and evaluate new modeling techniques (reduced-order models, uncertainty quantification, machine learning–based surrogates) to push the state of the art. 
  • Document assumptions, equations, and validation results so that both engineers and operators can trust model outputs. 

Required Qualifications

  •  BS or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Applied Math, Physics, or related field with 1+ years of aerospace modeling experience. 
  • C++ foundation with experience implementing numerical methods. 
  • Demonstrated experience with aerospace models such as: Aerodynamics (lift/drag curves, stability derivatives, dynamic response), Atmosphere/environment (COESA, ICAO, gravity, wind models), Vehicle dynamics 

Preferred Qualifications

  • 1+ years of experience working on pilot/operator training systems. 
  • Experience with Eigen or SciPy for model prototyping and validation. 
  • Familiarity with state estimation sensor models (GPS, IMU, Gyro, etc) for simulation environments. 
  • Background in multi-body dynamics or flight mechanics
  • Knowledge of uncertainty quantification and statistical analysis methods. 
  • Strong problem-solving mindset with a collaborative and detail-oriented approach. 
  • Familiarity with Python for test automation and data analysis pipelines. 
  • Passion for aerospace and autonomous vehicle systems. 

About Shield AI

Shield AI

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company specializing in artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and next-generation military aviation. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in San Diego, the company is focused on building advanced software and hardware solutions that enable military forces to operate effectively in the most contested, denied, and high-risk environments. Its technologies are designed to function where traditional systems fail—particularly in GPS-denied, communications-disrupted, and highly dynamic combat scenarios.

At the core of Shield AI’s innovation is its emphasis on software-driven autonomy. Rather than relying on remote human operators, the company develops AI-powered “pilots” capable of independently navigating complex missions, making real-time decisions, and executing objectives with speed and precision. This approach allows autonomous systems to operate with greater resilience, reduced latency, and significantly enhanced survivability in modern warfare environments.

Its mission is to protect service members and civilians through intelligent, autonomous systems. This mission drives the company’s commitment to reducing human risk on the battlefield while expanding the operational reach and effectiveness of defense forces. By combining cutting-edge artificial intelligence with deep operational insight, Shield AI is helping to redefine how military missions are planned, executed, and sustained in the era of autonomous warfare.

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