About Us:

Grid.aero is a VC-backed aviation startup tackling complex challenges in both defense and commercial markets. We are focused on solving real-world problems that will shape the future of the industry. Led by aerospace veterans and supported by leading venture firms, Grid is at the forefront of developing autonomous systems that will revolutionize how goods move through the skies.

Be part of a fast-growing, high-impact startup from day one. At Grid, your work will shape critical industries, driving innovation at the intersection of national security and global commerce.

Role Overview:
We are seeking a Machine Learning Engineer to be one of the first key hires at Grid.aero. In this role, you will develop cutting-edge ML algorithms for autonomous aircraft. You’ll work on real-time vision processing, sensor fusion, and AI-driven decision-making, helping build a next-generation autonomous flight system.

As an early hire, you'll help lay the foundation for the company’s future growth, both technically and organizationally. You’ll have full visibility into our mission, work closely with leadership, and be empowered to drive innovation. If you’re excited about building something world-changing and want to play a critical role in shaping an early-stage company, this opportunity is for you.

What You’ll Do:

• Design, implement, and optimize real-time computer vision algorithms for object detection, tracking, and classification in dynamic environments, leveraging deep learning models such as CNNs, transformers, and self-supervised learning for autonomous aircraft perception.
• Fuse vision data with other onboard sensors (e.g., LiDAR, radar, IMU) to improve situational awareness and decision-making.
• Optimize ML models for edge computing platforms, ensuring real-time performance and efficiency.
• Collaborate with autonomy, controls, and mission systems teams to integrate vision-based AI into flight control and mission management.
• Build and curate datasets, including synthetic data generation and domain adaptation techniques.
• Contribute to test planning, simulation, and real-world flight experiments to validate perception systems.

Who You Are:

• Mission-Driven: You're passionate about solving big, complex problems through technology and driven by the chance to change industries.
• Innovator: You thrive on the challenge of working with cutting-edge technologies and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
• Builder: You enjoy the excitement and impact of working at an early-stage startup where your contributions directly shape the future.
• Collaborative: You work well with diverse, cross-functional teams and are excited to lead, mentor, and inspire others.

Desired Qualifications:

• 3+ years of experience in computer vision, deep learning, or equivalent.
• Strong experience with deep learning frameworks (PyTorch (preferred), TensorFlow or Jax) and computer vision libraries (OpenCV, ROS, CUDA).
• Proficiency in semantic segmentation models such as DeepLab v3.
• Experience with object detection architectures, including YOLO for real-time applications and EfficientRep (ERFE) for lightweight feature extraction.
• Experience deploying AI models on edge devices or embedded systems.
• Proficiency in Python and C++ for real-time AI applications.
• Knowledge of multi-sensor fusion techniques and experience with LiDAR, radar, or event-based cameras is a plus.
• Experience with synthetic data generation, domain adaptation, or self-supervised learning is a plus.
• Exposure to aviation or UAS projects is a plus.

Why Join Grid.aero:

• Mission First: Tackle some of the most important national security issues of the day.
• Ownership: Receive a significant equity stake and help build the future of Grid.aero.
• Impact: As one of our first hires, you’ll have a direct and visible impact on the success of the company.
• Innovation: Lead the architecture of a game-changing product that will redefine the air logistics industry.
• Growth: Work alongside experienced aerospace founders and grow with the company as a key technical leader.

Compensation: $100k -$150k / .4-1% Equity
This role offers a significant equity stake in Grid.aero, with compensation expected to grow over time. We are looking for individuals who are driven by the mission and excited about the opportunity to build something extraordinary.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Grid.aero is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Legal Notice:

This position must meet export control compliance requirements. To meet export control compliance requirements, a “U.S. Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. §120.15 is required. “U.S. Person” includes U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.