Embedded Engineering Spring 2026 Co-Op (Dallas, TX)

Shield AI is seeking an exceptional Co-op candidate to join the team in building our autonomous aircraft. You will join a team of highly talented cross-functional engineers that exhibit a culture of mentorship, kindness, ownership, and hard work. The start date and duration of the Co-op are flexible. The Embedded Software team is focused on developing complex avionics software that merges hardware, operating systems and applications for cutting-edge Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV). Embedded Software engineers work with customer programs, electrical engineers, Guidance, Navigation and Controls (GNC) engineers, systems engineers, test engineers and the Autonomy AI team to design and develop software systems which utilize modern aerospace sensors, state-of-the-art UAV avionics, and groundbreaking Artificial Intelligence applications.

What you'll do:

• You will be given ownership of a project that is tailored to the start date, duration, and location of your Co-op.
• You will be partnered with a senior engineer as mentor and guide for technical input and professional development.
• Develop high-quality C/C++ code
• Participate in architecture, design, and code reviews
• Integrate software from multiple departments to include firmware, software test and verification, Autonomy AI, and Ground Control Stations (GCS)
• Develop software systems to implement and integrate interfaces to modern avionics sensors, sub-systems, and payloads
• Facilitate the design process for updates to the software system architecture

Required Qualifications:

• Typically requires a minimum of 2 years of coursework towards a degree in a related field (Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineer)
• Strong C/C++ background
• Experience in bare-metal firmware development for embedded systems
• Experience in a collaborative development environment, focused on continuous integration/delivery & unit testing to assure software quality
• Familiarity with common version control (git) and build systems (CMake, or similar)
• Demonstrated record of working hard, strong communication skills, being a trustworthy teammate, and being kind to others

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working on cutting-edge autonomous robotic systems
• Proven background in thriving within fast-paced environments, particularly within startup or R&D settings. School projects are applicable experience.
• Demonstrated adaptability, agility, and the ability to innovate under pressure to meet dynamic project demands and drive successful outcomes.
• Classroom or project experience in developing code (Verilog, VHDL) for FPGAs

This role may also be eligible for certain benefits like PTO, 401k, healthcare, etc.

Full-time regular employee offer package:

Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity

Temporary employee offer package:

Pay within range listed above + 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. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.

Shield AI is proud to be 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.