Senior Engineer, Software - Autonomous Aircraft Integration (R4983)
Integrates autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft, prepares systems for flight, supports on-site testing and debugging, and analyzes flight data in lab and field environments. Requires 5+ years experience, C++/Python proficiency, Linux/embedded systems, and sensor integration knowledge.
About the job
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.
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 5 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 4 years and a Master’s degree; or 2 years with a PhD; or equivalent work 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.
Skills
C++, Python, Linux, Rtos, ROS, Dds, Embedded Systems, Shell Scripting, Afsim, Ngts
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