Senior Staff Engineer, Operations Analysis (R4487)

What you’ll do:

• Develop and execute operational analysis strategies to assess the effectiveness of autonomous aircraft in real‑world military scenarios.
• Lead modeling, simulation, and wargaming efforts to evaluate system performance, mission impact, and survivability in contested environments.
• Work closely with engineering teams to translate operational insights into design decisions and system improvements.
• Conduct trade studies and sensitivity analyses to assess system performance under varying operational conditions and threats.
• Utilize advanced modeling & simulation tools (e.g., AFSIM, STK, MATLAB, Python) to develop high‑fidelity mission models.
• Analyze force‑on‑force engagements, sensor effectiveness, and autonomy‑driven decision‑making to optimize mission success.
• Collaborate with DoD stakeholders, operators, and warfighters to understand mission needs and align system capabilities with operational requirements.
• Develop and present technical reports, briefings, and recommendations to senior leadership, customers, and government agencies.
• Support concept of operations (CONOPS) development for new AI‑driven aircraft capabilities.
• Identify emerging threats and operational challenges, ensuring Shield AI’s systems remain ahead of adversary capabilities.

Required Qualifications:

• 10+ years of experience in operational analysis, modeling & simulation (M&S), or military operations research.
• Expertise in military mission analysis, operational planning, and wargaming methodologies.
• Proficiency with AFSIM, STK, MATLAB, Python, or other M&S tools used for aerospace and defense applications.
• Deep understanding of air combat, ISR, electronic warfare, or autonomous systems in contested environments.
• Excellent communication and briefing skills, with experience presenting to senior leadership, customers, and military personnel.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, agile development environment with shifting priorities.
• Active Secret or Top‑Secret clearance (or ability to obtain one).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience in force‑on‑force analysis, CONOPS development, or military campaign modeling.
• Experience integrating AI‑driven decision‑making algorithms into operational analysis frameworks.

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture‑backed deep‑tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include the V‑BAT and X‑BAT aircraft, Hivemind Enterprise, and the Hivemind Vision product lines. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and the Asia‑Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube.