Staff Software Engineer - Federal

Senior Software EngineerAt FieldAI, we build autonomous robotic systems that operate in demanding, real-world environments where tight integration between hardware and software is critical. We're looking for a Senior Software Engineer to support testing, deployment, and integration of wheeled robotic platforms across both federal and commercial programs.As a Senior Software Engineer at Field AI, you'll be at the forefront of bringing our autonomous systems to life in the real world, owning deployment, integration, and ongoing performance in the field. This role is equal parts engineering and problem-solving. You'll work hands-on with both customers and our internal teams to ensure successful operations, rapidly incorporate field feedback to improve reliability and performance, and drive adoption so our systems become mission-critical from day one. If you thrive in fast-paced, high-impact environments and want to see your work directly enable the future of autonomy, this is the role where you'll make it happen.What You'll Get To DoDrive strategic integration, debugging, and rapid capability development while providing essential software supportBuild robust utilities and tools to facilitate integration and automated testing for system software buildsProvide high-level technical expertise and analytical insights to advance the development of robust software architecturesWhat You HavePhD degree in Robotics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field or MS degree in a related field with 2+ years of industry or applied researchProven expertise in software engineering across the full program lifecycle, with a focus on early-stage system design and development.Experience/Familiarity with robotics middleware such as ROS / ROS 2 or similar distributed robotics software systemsExperience/Familiarity with distributed systems (multiple nodes, real-time comms)Experience/Familiarity with embedded systems (C/C++ on constrained hardware)Ability to work effectively across adjacent domains, including software, electronics, networking, and mechanical interfacesProven track record managing complex programs with multiple dependencies in agile/hybrid frameworksExcellent written and verbal communication skills; comfortable presenting to executives and diverse audiencesStrong analytical capabilities, with experience in financial modeling, ROI analysis, and tracking KPIsAbility to thrive in fast?paced, high?growth startup environments; proactive, adaptable, resilientThe Extras That Set You ApartExperience deploying, operating, or maintaining mission-critical systems in real-world environments.Experience using Jira or Wrike or Confluence or other program management software toolsAbility to work directly with customers in high-stakes, fast-paced settings, translating needs into technical solutions.Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical users.Willingness to travel and work on-site with customers as needed.This position is for our FieldAI Federal Team. This team works on projects connected to the U.S. government which requires U.S. Person eligibility. A U.S. Person as defined by 22 C.F.R §120.62 includes U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, lawful permanent residents (green card holders) refugee or asylee.$100,000 - $200,000 a yearThe salary range for this role is $70,000-$300,000. The actual offer for this position will be based on factors such as relevant experience, competencies, certifications, and how well the candidate meets the qualifications outlined above. Part of our compensation package also includes full benefits, equity, and generous time off.At Field AI, we believe the most effective way to collaborate and solve complex challenges is by working together in person. This is a fully onsite role, and candidates will be expected to work from our HQ in Irvine, CA. In-person engagement is essential to our success, and we offer flexible working hours to support focus and work-life balance.We are headquartered in always-sunny Irvine, Southern California and have US based and global teammates.We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.