Senior Systems Integration Engineer - Autonomous

Als Senior Autonomous Systems Integration Engineer bei Applied Intuition Defense fungieren Sie als technischer Anker zwischen Hardware, Edge-Software und Feldflugbetrieb. Sie bringen autonome Luftfahrtsysteme von der ersten Konfiguration auf dem Prüfstand bis zum live operativen Flug, etwa 50/50 zwischen Labor und Flugfeld. Sie konfigurieren eingebettete Linux-Umgebungen, setzen containerisierte Software-Stacks ein, verdrahten Mesh-Netzwerktopologien und schreiben Middleware-Code, um die Kommunikation zwischen Subsystemen sicherzustellen. Sie führen System-Bring-Ups durch, beheben Probleme im Feld und entwickeln Testwerkzeuge und Skripte für Datenreduktion und Systemvalidierung.

Responsibilities

• Lead System Bring-Up: Drive end-to-end hardware and software integration for unmanned aerial systems, moving platforms from benchtop prototyping to active flight test campaigns.
• Deploy & Configure Edge Software: Manage, configure, and deploy software stacks using Docker images, shell scripts, and Linux system tools across onboard computes and peripheral hardware.
• Field & Bench Troubleshooting: Troubleshoot vehicle networks, payload interfaces, and sensor links in real time using command-line tools (grep, less, journalctl, nano/vim) and hardware diagnostics (multimeters, oscilloscopes).
• Build Test Tooling & Glue Code: Develop Python and C++ scripts for data reduction, log analysis, system validation, and real-time subsystem verification.
• System Cabling & Electronics: Fabricate custom wiring harnesses, perform precision soldering, and define system-level architecture using clear block diagrams.
• Manage Communications & Networks: Configure IP routing, subnets, and local network interfaces between flight controllers, companion computers, radios, and ground control stations.

Requirements

• Experience: 5+ years of experience in robotics integration, flight test engineering, embedded systems, or autonomous vehicles (aerial background preferred).
• Linux & Networking Mastery: Deep practical comfort with the Linux CLI, file management, system logging, local IP routing, subnets, and containerized deployments (Docker).
• Hardware & Electronics Capability: Proven hands-on skills in wiring, custom cable assembly, bench soldering, and physical diagnostics using oscilloscopes and multimeters.
• Scripting & Glue Code: Strong proficiency in Python, C++, or Shell scripting for automation, test suite creation, and processing flight data logs.
• Protocols: Direct experience working with serial and vehicle bus protocols (UART, CAN, Ethernet, SPI, I2C).
• Leadership: Ability to lead major integration efforts independently and act as the technical link between software, GNC, and hardware teams.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen
• Must hold or be eligible for a U.S. Secret security clearance

Nice to have

• Active DoD Secret Security Clearance.
• Deep experience with the MAVLink protocol and autopilot hardware (PX4, ArduPilot).
• Experience with Persistent Systems, Silvus, or similar tactical mesh radios.
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and hands-on R/C flight experience.
• Background working with defense tech platforms or flight ranges.

Benefits

• Compensation at Applied Intuition for eligible roles includes base salary, equity, and benefits. Base salary is a single component of the total compensation package, which may also include equity in the form of options and/or restricted stock units, comprehensive health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance coverage, 401k retirement benefits with employer match, learning and wellness stipends, and paid time off. Note that benefits are subject to change and may vary based on jurisdiction of employment.
• Please reference the job posting subtitle for where this position will be located. For pay transparency purposes, the base salary range for this full-time position in the location listed is: $120,000 to $165,000 USD annually.