Senior Communications Engineer (Hiring at Multiple Levels)

30 days left

Apply Now

Senior Communications Engineer (Hiring at Multiple Levels)

Texas United States

30 days left

Apply Now

Job role insights

  • Date posted

    April 5, 2026

  • Location

    Texas

  • Experience

    Senior Level

Description

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.
  • #LI-SM1#LF

    Call employer