Mid-Level Autonomous UAS Software Engineer

The challenge

The drone swarm needs to autonomously distribute ISR coverage across a 50 km2 area with 20 vehicles while adapting to real-time intelligence updates and vehicle losses.

Role overview

You write the autonomy software that makes military drone swarms work. Path planning algorithms, task allocation systems, and swarm coordination protocols that have to function when GPS is jammed and vehicles are getting shot down. The difference between a demo and a fielded capability is what happens when things go wrong.

Specializations

Technical requirements

• BS or MS in Computer Science, Robotics, or Aerospace Engineering
• 3-5 years in robotics or autonomous systems software development
• Experience with path planning and motion planning algorithms
• Proficiency in C++ and Python with ROS 2 experience
• Understanding of multi-agent coordination and task allocation algorithms
• Active Secret clearance or ability to obtain (US citizenship required)

Key responsibilities

• Develop autonomous mission planning and execution software for multi-UAS swarm operations
• Implement path planning algorithms for cooperative ISR coverage in contested environments
• Design task allocation systems that dynamically reassign objectives based on vehicle attrition
• Build simulation environments for swarm algorithm testing and evaluation
• Implement ROS 2-based autonomy stacks for small UAS platforms
• Support flight testing of autonomous capabilities at military test ranges

Compensation & Benefits

• Significant equity (early-stage company)
• Base salary: $115,000 - $145,000
• Annual bonus 8%
• Hybrid work with travel to test sites (20%)
• Conference attendance and publication support