Forward Deployed Software Engineer

Forward Deployed Software EngineerSaronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations through autonomous and intelligent platforms.Job OverviewWe are seeking a Forward Deployed Software Engineer who will be at the forefront of integrating, deploying, and improving our autonomous systems in real-world environments. You will work hands-on with software, networking, and autonomy, ensuring our autonomous service vessels perform reliably in operational settings. This role blends software development, field deployment, and problem-solving to ensure our technology delivers real mission impact.You will be deeply engaged in debugging and optimizing autonomy algorithms, refining system performance based on real-world data, and working closely with end-users to adapt our technology to mission needs. Whether troubleshooting networking issues, improving sensor integration, or refining control logic, you will play a critical role in making our systems more capable and reliable.You will be the link between groundbreaking autonomy technology and real-world success. You will work on the front lines of maritime autonomy, ensuring our systems operate effectively in the environments where they matter most. You will impact mission success and shape the future of autonomous maritime operations.ResponsibilitiesDevelop and refine software for autonomy, networking, and mission execution, improving system performance in real-world maritime conditionsDeploy and test ASV software in the field, identifying and resolving issues related to autonomy, perception, and control systemsAnalyze performance data from real-world missions, using insights to drive software improvements and optimize system behaviorIntegrate and validate new autonomy features, ensuring seamless interaction between software, sensors, and vessel hardwareWork directly with operators and end-users, gathering feedback and adapting the system to operational requirementsTroubleshoot and resolve software, hardware, and networking issues that arise during deploymentsCollaborate with cross-functional teams, including autonomy engineers, hardware developers, and field operations personnel, to enhance product capabilitiesDocument best practices, deployment procedures, and debugging workflows to improve system reliability and scalabilityQualificationsStrong software engineering skills, with experience in C++, Rust, Python, or similar languagesBackground in robotics, autonomy, or embedded systems, particularly in maritime, aerospace, or defense applicationsUnderstanding of networking protocols and distributed systems, including TCP/IP, UDP, and message-passing frameworksExperience working with sensors such as cameras, radar, GPS, and IMUs, especially in perception-driven autonomy applicationsAbility to diagnose and debug complex systems, from low-level networking issues to high-level autonomy behaviorsAbility to work in dynamic environments, where software must adapt to real-world constraints and unpredictable conditionsWillingness to travel (up to 50%), spending time in the field testing and improving ASV systems in real-world maritime settingsExperience developing autonomy software for real-world robotic systems, particularly in challenging environments like the oceanFamiliarity with motion planning, behavior trees, and control algorithms for autonomous navigationBackground in maritime systems, naval operations, or defense technologyKnowledge of distributed autonomy architectures and multi-agent coordinationHands-on experience integrating and deploying robotic systems in the fieldThis Role Is For You If:You're a software engineer who wants to see your code leave the repo and run on real vessels, in real missionsYou enjoy tackling integration and deployment challenges where things don't always go as plannedYou're comfortable stepping in as the technical expert on-site and working through complex issues independentlyYou can take a loosely defined customer need and turn it into something that works in practiceYou like working directly with users, but prefer solving problems through code rather than slidesThis Role Is NOT:A pilot or flight test engineering position — you'll be enabling the mission, not flying itA primarily hands-on hardware role (electronics, wiring, mechanical assembly), though you may occasionally pitch inA job with fully predictable schedules — priorities can shift with demos, weather, and mission needsA traditional SRE/DevOps role based entirely in an office — this role includes time in the fieldBenefitsMedical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of servicesDental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision careSaronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependentsTime Off: Generous PTO and HolidaysParental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parentsCompetitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonusesRetirement Plan: 401(k) planStock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company's successLife and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverageAdditional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the officePhysical DemandsProlonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computerOccasional standing and walking within the officeManual dexterity to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office equipmentVisual acuity to read screens, documents, and reportsOccasional reaching, bending, or stooping to access file drawers, cabinets, or office suppliesLifting and carrying items up to 20 pounds occasionally (e.g., office supplies, packages)Saronic CCPA Notice for Candidates and California EmployeesIf this role is based in the United States, it requires access to export-controlled information or items that require "U.S. Person" status. As defined by U.S. law, individuals who are any one of the following are considered to be a "U.S. Person": (1) U.S. citizens, (2) legal permanent residents (a.k.a. green card holders), and (3) certain protected classes of asylees and refugees, as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). Saronic does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other reason prohibited by law in provision of employment opportunities and benefits. We are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.