# Field Applications Engineer

**Company:** [9 Mothers](https://hotfix.jobs/companies/9-mothers)
**Location:** Austin, TX
**Role:** Solutions Architecture
**Salary:** $95k – $110k/yr
**Skills:** linux cli, firmware flashing, sensor calibration, boresighting, multimeters, oscilloscopes, nvidia jetson, embedded linux, rf sensors, thermal optics, hardware troubleshooting, networking debugging, uas, c-uas
**Posted:** 2026-07-27

> Field Applications Engineer responsible for live demonstrations, hardware/software setup, calibration, troubleshooting, and feedback for autonomous counter-drone systems in real-world field and test range environments. Requires hands-on experience with complex systems, Linux, sensors, and electronics; defense/UAS background preferred.

## Job Description

## Essential Duties
- Lead live, dynamic flight and target-tracking demonstrations in field environments, operating autonomous counter-drone systems flawlessly under high-stakes conditions.
- Prepare, assemble, and check complex autonomous hardware and edge-compute systems prior to field tests and customer demonstrations.
- Perform precise hardware and sensor alignment, including boresighting, thermal/EO camera focusing, lens calibration, and multi-sensor orientation.
- Flash latest software builds, test system stability, perform integration tests, and ensure firmware/software readiness for field trials.
- Diagnose and resolve unexpected hardware, software, networking, and sensor issues on the fly with minimal downtime during field trials.
- Serve as the direct link between field reality and R&D, capturing detailed telemetry, edge cases, and user feedback to inform engineering rapid iteration cycles.

## Requirements
- Demonstrated experience deploying, operating, or troubleshooting complex hardware/software systems in real-world or live-fire test range environments.
- Practical experience with optical/camera calibration (focus, boresighting), sensor alignment, and field validation techniques.
- Proficient in Linux CLI environments, firmware/software flashing tools, and basic networking/telemetry debugging.
- Experience with harness assembly, field repair, cable building, and multimeters/oscilloscopes for quick edge-side hardware fixes.
- Willingness to travel to outdoor testing sites and demonstration ranges; comfortable working outdoors in varying terrain and weather conditions.
- This position requires access to export-controlled information under ITAR. Only U.S. citizens are permitted. Must be willing to submit a background check.

## Nice-to-Have
- Prior experience with robotics, Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), counter-UAS (c-UAS), or defense range operations.
- Familiarity with thermal/IR optics, RF sensors, or embedded Linux environments (e.g., NVIDIA Jetson).
- Prior defense startup experience or military background in range safety/flight test operations.
- Security clearance or the ability to obtain one.
- A passion for building or engineering robotics or electronics as a hobby.

## Benefits
- Meaningful Early Equity: You aren't just an employee; you are a foundational owner.
- Direct Roadmap Influence: You will have a seat at the table, directly shaping our product and technology trajectory from day one.
- Mission-Critical Work: We build systems the Department of War actively needs to counter immediate, real-world threats.
- The Builder's Playground: Work in a brand-new lab fully optimized for rapid prototyping, equipped with NVIDIA Jetsons, high-end scopes, and 3-D printers.
- 100% Employer-Paid Premiums: We cover 100% of your medical, dental, and vision insurance premiums and cover 50% of healthcare premiums for your dependents.
- Unlimited PTO.
- Zero Red Tape: You report to the founders. You have the autonomy to make technical decisions that would take months of committee approval at a larger firm.
- Austin-Based Culture: Join an onsite team in Austin, TX.
- Relocation Assistance.

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