Principal Software Engineer (Autonomy)

Thompson Software Solutions is seeking a senior-level Embedded Software Engineer to join a high-performing multi-site team. The role involves developing, integrating, and testing software products for mission-critical aerospace and defense systems, using a wide application of technical principles. The engineer will work both independently and collaboratively with other software engineers and program teams, contributing to innovative solutions for complex technical challenges that impact national security.

Responsibilities

• Thompson Software Solutions is seeking a senior-level Embedded Software Engineer who is ready to work with a talented team to provide innovative solutions for tomorrow’s problems. This position requires a software engineer to use a wide application of technical principles, theories, and concepts in the software field to develop, integrate, and test software products. The successful candidate will be a member of a high-performing multi-site team and must be self-motivated with strong work ethic, time-management, and interpersonal skills. In this role, you will work independently at times on projects, at other times will be in a collaborative team environment with other software engineers, as well as other program development and deployment teams.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in computer engineering, Computer Science, or related technical discipline.
• 8+ years Strong software development experience using C, C++, Java, Python, and Bash for embedded systems, automation, testing, and application development.
• Experience with UAS/UAV or RC aircraft operations, integration, and troubleshooting.
• Proficient with Git for source control, branching strategies, code reviews, and collaborative software development.
• Understanding robotics, autonomous systems, flight software, sensor integration, and embedded system design
• Proficient with Linux and Windows development environments
• Ability to professionally communicate project status and collaborate on technical solutions with clients and peers
• Active Secret DoD security clearance
• 25% Travel

Nice to have

• Proficient with Atlassian Tools (Confluence, JIRA, Bitbucket, etc.)
• Experience developing and configuring autonomous flight systems using ArduPilot and/or PX4 flight controllers.
• Familiarity with the MAVLink communication protocol, including telemetry, command-and-control messaging, mission planning, and integration with ground control stations.
• DevOps & Containerization – Experience with Docker-based development, deployment, and maintaining CI/CD pipelines.
• Embedded Systems – Developing software for microcontrollers and embedded hardware platforms.
• Autonomy Systems – Working with autonomous systems software and hardware, including Perception (sensors, computer vision, sensor fusion)
• Motion and mission planning
• Control systems
• Test & Verification Engineering – Creating automated tests, validation frameworks, and verification software.
• Software Quality & CI/CD – Designing and maintaining robust software quality processes, automated builds, testing, and deployment pipelines.
• Electrical Engineering Fundamentals – Ability to read and understand electrical schematics and collaborate with hardware teams.
• Experience communicating and documenting complex technical designs.
• Ability to work in a collaborative and team-based environment
• Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills.

Benefits

• Low-cost Medical / Dental / Vision coverage options
• 401K with generous employer match
• Responsible Paid Time Off + Paid Holidays
• Remote work opportunities based on role
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Career growth and professional development opportunities