Summer 2027 Intern in Washington, D.C.

About the Role

Shield AI is looking for a Future Concepts Intern to explore and evaluate next-generation concepts for Hivemind autonomy across air, space, land, and maritime domains. You will work with mentors in Future Concepts and Operations Analysis and collaborate with Engineering, Product, and Go-To-Market teams. The work involves turning emerging technologies and operational needs into credible mission concepts and lightweight analytical prototypes.

Over the internship, you will run early-stage trade studies, build scripts and models to test key assumptions, and share findings that inform the product roadmap.

This role suits a curious problem-solver with a strong foundation in engineering or a quantitative field and hands-on programming skills. You will combine creative thinking with analytical rigor to contribute to concept studies, white papers, and briefings that shape how Shield AI addresses critical challenges for the warfighter.

Required Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in engineering, computer science, operations research, physics, mathematics, data science, or a related technical field.
• Proficiency in at least one programming or analysis tool (such as Python, MATLAB, or C++) for modeling, simulation, or data analysis.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to tackle open-ended questions and communicate complex ideas clearly in writing and presentations.
• Strong interest in autonomous systems, robotics, aerospace, or defense.
• Eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior coursework, research, or internship experience in system design, trade studies, modeling and simulation, autonomy, or operations analysis.
• Familiarity with version control, data visualization, and AI-assisted coding and research workflows.
• Familiarity with defense systems, military operations, and Concepts of Operations (CONOPS).
• Active U.S. government security clearance.

About Shield AI

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company focused on protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. The company has offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific.

The paid Summer Internship program is open to Fall and Spring graduates. It offers hands-on mentorship, the chance to contribute to the company through your internship project, and a possible job offer at the end. Interns take part in company-sponsored events and get to know a new city.

Shield AI offers competitive pay and a housing stipend for qualified hires. Interns are responsible for finding their own housing and travel to and from their office location.

Shield AI is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. It is 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. Applicants with a disability or special need that requires accommodation may ask for it.