Senior Software Engineer, Autonomous Pilot Integration (R5423)

What you'll do

• System Integration & Deployment - Integrate autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft systems, ensuring seamless operation across onboard compute, sensors, and control interfaces.
• Pre-flight Preparation - Own the build, configuration, and validation process for flight-ready systems; coordinate hardware/software compatibility and mission readiness.
• On-site Flight Test Support - Travel to test sites and support live flight operations, including safety checks, system bring-up, and troubleshooting under time-critical constraints.
• Hardware/Software Debugging - Diagnose and resolve integration issues across complex autonomy software stacks and embedded systems in lab and field environments.
• Flight Data Capture & Analysis - Manage data collection during missions and post-test analysis, working with autonomy engineers to refine behaviors and identify improvements.
• Collaboration Across Teams - Work closely with autonomy, GNC, systems, and test teams to ensure mission-critical functionality is delivered on time and validated thoroughly.
• Continuous Improvement - Build tools and processes to improve integration timelines, flight test reliability, and team efficiency across deployment cycles.
• Support Certification and Compliance - Assist with documentation and system-level validation required for certification, airworthiness, and compliance in defense-relevant environments.
• Travel Requirement - Members of this team typically travel around 30-40% of the year (to different office locations, customer sites, and flight integration events).

Required Qualifications

• BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, and/or similar degree, or equivalent practical experience
• Typically requires a minimum of 2 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or completion of a Master’s or PhD program with internship or equivalent practical experience preferred; or equivalent professional experience.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as C++ and Python, and familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS).
• Proficiency in Linux-based development and experience working with embedded systems, shell scripting, and system diagnostics.
• Knowledge of sensor integration, sensor fusion, and middleware frameworks (e.g., ROS, DDS).
• Hands-on experience supporting flight demos or live exercises.
• Experience with simulation tools and environments (e.g., AFSIM, NGTS) for testing and validation.
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot and optimize system performance.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.
• Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience supporting unmanned aerial systems or similar flight test campaigns.
• Familiarity with autonomy stacks, flight control systems, or GNC pipelines.
• Competence in sensor integration, electronics debugging, or avionics bring-up.
• Proficiency in developing automation tools for system testing, logging, and data parsing.
• Comfortable interfacing with DoD stakeholders during field events or technical reviews.
• Experience with UCI and OMS Standards.

• #LI-ED1
• #LC
• 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.