Senior Embedded Software Engineer — Qt/C++ for UAV Systems

Company Overview

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems used across defense, national security, and public safety missions. As we expand into Denver, we are building a new center of engineering excellence to design our new category of tactical robotic systems and the industrial capacity to deliver them, bringing decisive airpower into the hands of every operator. We are not here to make promises; we are here to deliver real systems with real capabilities for real missions.

You will join a team of operators, engineers, and builders who solve hard problems with humility and focus. We design and produce multi-mission aerial systems that operators trust to perform in real-world conditions, reliably, repeatedly, and at scale. Our approach is grounded in operator-centered design, rapid iteration from field use, and U.S.-based manufacturing. We operate by a clear set of values: Mission First, Aim Farther, Own It, Win Together. This is how we build advantage and how we help protect our service members, our communities, and our country.

What You'll Do

Our Senior Software Engineer will:

• Lead design and implementation of significant software features and subsystems.

• Make sound technical decisions independently, navigating ambiguity with confidence.

• Collaborate closely with Product, Design, and other engineering teams to shape requirements and delivery plans.

• Mentor junior and mid-level engineers through code reviews, pair programming, and technical guidance.

• Identify and address performance bottlenecks, architectural weaknesses, and security gaps.

• Contribute to and enforce coding standards, development processes, and engineering best practices.

• Support field deployments, product demonstrations, and hands-on debugging in real-world conditions.

• Drive continuous improvement in code quality, reliability, and system performance.

Qualifications

• Advanced software development skills in C++, with strong command of performance optimization, memory management, and modern programming standards.

• Proven experience designing and delivering complex, production-quality software systems.

• Hands-on experience with embedded Linux, Android, or similar platforms.

• Experience building responsive UI systems, preferably with Qt/QML, and integrating with backend systems via REST and JSON.

• Strong command of software development processes including agile, CI/CT/CD, and code review practices.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to articulate technical decisions clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field, with 5–8 years of professional software development experience.

Preferred

• Extensive hands-on experience with the Qt framework including QtWidgets, QML, and the Qt meta-object system.

• Demonstrated success deploying cross-platform applications on Windows, Linux, and/or Android using Qt.

• Background or direct experience with UAVs, aircraft, robotics, or autonomous systems.

• Strong knowledge of build systems and toolchains including CMake, QMake, and multi-platform compiler configuration.

• Proficiency with Git branching strategies, tagging, and collaborative development workflows.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift / carry up to 25 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment as well as various electronic power supplies and test equipment. Must be physically capable of the assigned duties.

Work Environment

This position typically operates in a standard office and requires use of standard office and may require occasional travel to customer locations or facilities. This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments. May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment. This is a fast-paced work environment and requires cross-functional collaboration with independent and team-based responsibilities.

ITAR Requirement

In compliance with International Traffic Arms Regulations (ITAR), candidates must be U.S. Citizens, U.S. Permanent Residents (Green Card holders) or individuals granted asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Benefits
PDW values our team, and we offer a compensation package reflective of your experience and capabilities. Benefits include:

• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company.

• Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match.

• Paid Parental Leave.

• A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation.

• Employer provided life insurance.

• Robust Employee Assistant Program (EAP).

• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.

EEO Statement

PDW is an equal opportunity employer that upholds all federal and state non-discrimination laws. We ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation for employment for all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.