Flight Integration Engineer

Description On-site in either Washington, DC or Boston, MA or San Diego, CA Our client seeks a Flight Integration Engineer who will integrate autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft systems and support flight readiness across lab and field environments. The role includes pre-flight preparation, on-site flight test support, hardware and software debugging, data capture and analysis, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to deliver reliable autonomous capabilities. The position requires hands-on systems integration, strong troubleshooting skills, and regular travel to test sites. Due to client requirements, applicants must be willing and able to work on a w2 basis. For our w2 consultants, we offer a great benefits package that includes Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits, 401k with company matching, and life insurance. Rate: $90-110/hr. w2 Responsibilities Integrate autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft systems across onboard compute, sensors, and control interfaces. Own build, configuration, and validation for flight-ready systems and ensure mission readiness. Support on-site flight tests including safety checks, system bring-up, and time-critical troubleshooting. Diagnose and resolve issues across autonomy stacks and embedded systems in lab and field environments. Capture flight data and conduct post-test analysis to refine autonomy behaviors and identify improvements. Collaborate with autonomy, GNC, systems, and test teams to deliver validated mission-critical functionality. Develop tools and processes that improve integration timelines, reliability, and team efficiency. Support documentation and system-level validation for certification, airworthiness, and compliance. Travel 30–40% to office locations, customer sites, and flight integration events. Experience Requirements BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or similar, or equivalent experience. Typically 7+ years with a Bachelor’s, or 5+ years with a Master’s, or 4+ years with a PhD, or equivalent work experience. Proficient in C++ and Python with familiarity in RTOS. Proficient in Linux development, embedded systems, shell scripting, and system diagnostics. Knowledge of sensor integration, sensor fusion, and middleware such as ROS and DDS. Hands-on experience supporting flight demos or live exercises. Experience with simulation tools such as AFSIM or NGTS for testing and validation. Strong problem-solving skills with ability to troubleshoot and optimize system performance. Effective communication and teamwork in multidisciplinary environments. Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance. Preferred: experience with UAS flight test campaigns, autonomy stacks, flight control or GNC pipelines, electronics debugging or avionics bring-up, automation tools for testing and data parsing, interfacing with DoD stakeholders, and knowledge of UCI and OMS standards. Education Requirements BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or similar, or equivalent experience.