Software Engineer, Localization

About Mach IndustriesFounded in 2022, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 350 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.The RoleMach Industries is building an AI‑forward autonomy stack for contested environments where GPS and other sensing is unavailable or unreliable. As an member of our team, you will design and implement state-of-the-art estimation and sensor-fusion algorithms that power robust navigation across all of our product lines. You will work at the intersection of perception, state estimation, and embedded systems to bring research-grade algorithms to rugged, real-world deployments.Key ResponsibilitiesPrototype and productionize vision navigation and targeting features end-to-end from sim to HITL to flight with production C++.Turn detections (EO/IR/RF/radar) into well-posed measurement models with latencies/covariances; make the estimator decision‑aware without corrupting state.Stabilize GNSS to VIO handover (adaptive covariances, gating, hysteresis, reset‑less alignment) to eliminate jumps and estimator resets.Build and optimize real-time software on Linux/embedded; profile CPU/GPU, vectorize hot paths; optional CUDA/TensorRT on Jetson hardware.Own calibration and time-sync across IMU/cameras/radar/LiDAR/GNSS; validate in flight.Create evaluation pipelines and dashboards for drift, handover stability, relocalization, track qualityImplement fault detection and graceful degradation for harsh conditions (blur, low‑light, vibration, RF denial).Integrate global aids (maps, magnetics, radar) for long‑term consistency and loop‑closure robustness.Required Qualifications Stellar software ability: Modern C++ on Linux; Python for tooling/analysis; strong debugging, profiling, testing discipline.SLAM/state estimation: Error-state EKF/UKF, factor graphs, nonlinear least-squares (Ceres/GTSAM), observability and covariance tuning.Vision experience VIO/SLAM, camera models, optical flow/feature tracking; comfort with deep learning for detection/seg/pose (PyTorch) and on-edge deployment.Sensor integration: IMU strapdown and biases, GNSS/RTK; multi-camera, LiDAR, radar, magnetometer, barometer.Ship and fly: Proven research-to-production delivery and field testing on real platforms.5 years of experience with either a BS/MS/PhD in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical/Aerospace Engineering, or related field, or equivalent practical experience.Preferred QualificationsExperience with CUDA/TensorRT/ONNX Runtime; NVIDIA Jetson pipelines.Exposure to ROS 2, PX4/ArduPilot integrationStrong data practices: data validation in CI, SQL/Parquet, reproducible datasets.Experience in contested/denied RF, low-light/night, high-vibration environments.Rust for systems tooling; Docker for reproducibility.DisclosuresThis position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.Mach participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach’s total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you’d like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!Compensation Range: $125K - $220KLocationHuntington Beach, CA; San Francisco, CAEmployment TypeFull timeLocation TypeOn-siteDepartmentMach VehiclesResearch, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E)Software EngineeringCompensationSoftware Engineer, Localization$125K – $160K • Offers EquitySenior Software Engineer, Localization$165K – $220K • Offers EquityAt Mach, we believe that compensation is more than just a paycheck. It's a comprehensive package designed to reward the time, skills, and expertise you bring to our team. We are committed to offering competitive compensation that is equitable, transparent, and aligned with market trends.Key Elements of Our Compensation Philosophy:Competitive Salaries: We continuously research market rates to ensure our salaries are competitive with those in our industry and geographic location.Performance-Based Incentives: Our bonus structure is tied to both individual and company performance, creating a win-win scenario that motivates our team members to excel.Equity Participation: We offer stock options or equity to employees, ensuring that you share in the success and growth of the company.Benefit Packages: Our benefits include healthcare, dental and vision plans, retirement savings, and paid time off, because we understand that your well-being extends beyond the office.Professional Development: We allocate funds for continuing education, training, and career growth.Transparency: We are committed to openness about our compensation tiers and how decisions are made, ensuring trust and mutual respect.By joining Mach, you’re not just accepting a job—you’re becoming a key part of a team that values your contributions and invests in your growth. Together, we aim to create a rewarding environment that sets the stage for long-term success.