Shield AI

Pros: As an AI/ML Engineer in San Diego, working in the defense tech industry here has been great. I've enjoyed collaborating with really smart colleagues on challenging AI and machine learning projects, offering strong opportunities to learn and grow. The work flexibility is a huge plus, supporting a solid work-life balance.
Cons: Sometimes the internal approval processes can be slow, affecting project timelines. Clearer, more consistent cross-team communication would definitely improve efficiency.
Advice to Management: Focus on streamlining internal processes to speed up project execution and invest more in tools for seamless cross-team communication. This would help us move even faster and reduce potential roadblocks.

Pros: There's a hybrid model available for some roles, which is good. You can usually work from home a couple of days a week if your manager is cool with it. This really helps with avoiding the San Diego traffic, especially for software-focused tasks not tied to hardware.
Cons: For hardware-heavy roles, like mine in embedded systems, on-site work is pretty much mandatory. It's tough getting true work-from-home flexibility. Deadlines in this defense tech startup often mean long hours, and there's pressure to be in the office during critical periods. Not ideal for work-life balance.
Advice to Management: I'd suggest leadership looks into clearer, more consistent work flexibility policies across all engineering teams, not just software. It's tough to retain talent in San Diego if onsite requirements are too rigid, especially for roles like embedded software engineers where some tasks can be done remotely.

Pros: You get a set hybrid work model, which means some WFH is allowed. For a startup in the defense tech space, that's not always a given. It's nice to have some flexibility on certain days.
Cons: True work flexibility isn't really a thing here beyond the set hybrid schedule. If you're a Software Engineer looking for full remote, this isn't it. The San Diego office hours are pretty standard, not much wiggle room.
Advice to Management: Consider allowing more flexibility for senior Software Engineer roles, especially for tasks not requiring hardware access. Trusting employees more with their schedules could boost morale.