Autonomy Software Engineer - Edge Autonomy

WORK LOCATION: San Luis Obispo, CA, Huntsville, AL, Ann Arbor, MI or Herndon, VA

SALARY RANGE: $140,000 - $230,000

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

SUMMARY 

Edge Autonomy is seeking an experienced Autonomy/AI software engineer with a strong background in implementing optimization algorithms in embedded environments, software applications insafety-critical systems, and a mastery of C#/C++ programming.The Autonomy Software Engineer will design and deploy onboard flight autonomy agents on Nvidia Jetson processors, enabling autonomous flight behaviors in real-world environments. This software must be capable of making critical flight decisions independently, adapting to various dynamic conditions such as weather, threats, and aircraft state degradations. The solutions developed in this role will be deployed on operational aircraft engaged in global missions, requiring robust, reliable, and safety-focused software development. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

The following job functions are a basic requirement but are not limited to and may be assigned other duties.  

·       Lead the design and implementation of the onboard autonomy agent on a Jetson processor, integrating it with the aircraft’s vehicle management system.

·       Develop and optimize algorithms for autonomous path planning, enabling adaptive response to high-level mission requirements under various environmental and operational conditions.

·       Implement advanced optimization techniques within embedded systems to enhance flight path generation, even in degraded aircraft states.

·       Design and integrate a decision-making agent to autonomously handle contingency situations, including adverse weather, system faults, and loss of communication.

·       Develop and maintain a simulation test environment to validate autonomous behavior, conducting tests in a System Integration Lab (SIL), Hardware Integration Lab (HIL), and through live flight tests.

·       Debug, troubleshoot, and resolve issues in embedded environments, ensuring software meets high safety and performance standards.

·       Maintain rigorous documentation and version control for safety-critical systems, supporting audits and compliance requirements.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

The following are a non-exhaustive list of qualifications for the position:

·       Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field

·       Minimum of 5 years of experience in aerospace autonomy or similar fields, with a focus on embedded software and optimization algorithms.

·      Proficiency in C#/C++ for embedded systems, with proven experience in developing and deploying algorithms in safety-critical environments.

·       Strong understanding of path planning algorithms (e.g., Dijkstra, A*) and their application in real-time embedded systems.

·       Solid grasp of optimization techniques, data structures, and design patterns, specifically within embedded and constrained environments.

·       Experience with Nvidia Jetson processors or similar embedded compute platforms, including low-level interfacing with hardware systems.

·       Demonstrated experience in developing autonomous systems for real-world, operational environments, preferably aerospace or UAS.

·       Experience implementing and testing software applications that must meet safety-critical standards, such as DO-178 or similar regulations.

·       Proven track record of implementing algorithms and optimizations for embedded applications in safety-sensitive or mission-critical contexts.

·       Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with an emphasis on embedded software optimization.

·       High level of responsibility and ownership in solving complex problems in dynamic and high-stakes environments.

·       Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a focus on documenting processes and maintaining code quality in regulated environments.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience building a System Integration Lab (SIL) or Hardware Integration Lab (HIL) for Unmanned Aircraft
• Experience supporting flight test
• Practical experience writing firmware/embedded code for a physical device
• Understanding of UAS architectures and subsystems
• Understanding of flight-critical software requirements
• Understanding of Flight Behavior and Aircraft Performance

EDGE AUTONOMY BENEFITS

• Matching 401(k)
• Paid PTO
• Paid holidays
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• Group Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• HSA and FSA Options
• Critical Care Plan
• Accident Care Plan

Hiring Requirements

If an offer of employment offer is extended, applicant must have the ability to pass a background check and the ability to be insured by the Company’s Auto-policy. An Offer of Employment is contingent upon the results.

Clearance Requirements

This position may require access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). To comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify a US person’s status.

Edge Autonomy is an Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Edge Autonomy is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact jobs@edgeautonomy.io

Continued employment remains on an “At-Will” basis.