Senior UAS Autonomy Applications Engineer

Role Description

Redwire Defense Tech is seeking an experienced Autonomy/AI software engineer with a strong background in implementing optimization algorithms in embedded environments, software applications in safety-critical systems, and a mastery of C#/C++ programming. The Senior UAS Autonomy Applications Engineer will develop and expand the capabilities of the UAS platform using advanced algorithms and techniques to ensure mission success and safety of the system. In this position, you will adopt full ownership of a use case for UAS and develop autonomous capabilities to achieve it. The solutions developed in this role will be deployed on operational aircraft engaged in global missions, requiring robust, reliable, and safety-focused software development.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the implementation of the onboard autonomy agent on a Jetson processor, integrating it with the aircraft’s mission system.
• Develop and optimize autonomy algorithms and solutions, enabling adaptive response to high-level mission requirements under various environmental and operational conditions.
• Design and implement autonomous path planning and search algorithms.
• Develop systems that enable adaptive responses to dynamic real-world environments.
• Process and integrate sensor data to support autonomous decision-making.
• Apply machine learning techniques to improve autonomy performance and capabilities.
• Own the full design, development, and testing lifecycle for new use cases and autonomy features.
• Debug, troubleshoot, and resolve issues in embedded environments, ensuring software meets high safety and performance standards.
• Maintain comprehensive documentation and version control for safety-critical systems to support audits and compliance requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in aerospace autonomy or similar fields, with a focus on embedded software, planning and pathfinding algorithms, and mission critical systems.
• Proficiency in C++ and Python for embedded software development.
• Experience working in Linux environments and with Docker containerization.
• Experience supporting UAS use cases in commercial and/or defense applications.
• Experience developing autonomous software systems for real-world operational environments, preferably within aerospace or UAS domains.
• Strong understanding of optimization techniques, data structures, and design patterns, specifically within embedded and constrained environments.
• Experience with NVIDIA Jetson processors or similar embedded computing platforms, including low-level hardware interfacing; experience with CUDA and accelerated computing is a plus.
• Demonstrated ownership and accountability in solving complex problems within dynamic, high-stakes environments.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting flight test operations.
• Familiarity with communication standards such as STANAG, DDS, and Kafka.
• Experience with computer vision and real-time object detection.
• Understanding of UAS architectures and subsystem integration.
• Understanding of flight-critical and mission-critical software requirements.
• Knowledge of flight behavior and aircraft performance principles.

Benefits

• Matching 401(k)
• Paid PTO
• Paid holidays
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• Group Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• HSA and FSA Options
• Critical Care Plan
• Accident Care Plan
• Employee Stock Purchasing Program (ESPP)

Clearance Requirements

This position may require access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). To comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify a US person’s status under the ITAR and the EAR.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

The work environment may involve a standard office setting while also incorporating elements of a production area. Employees will use standard office equipment, including computers, and must demonstrate stamina to sit or stand while maintaining attention to detail despite potential interruptions. The role may require occasional activities such as walking, climbing, stooping, crouching, and bending. Vision is necessary for reading printed materials and a computer screen, while hearing and speech are essential for effective communication both in person and over the telephone. Additionally, the position may necessitate travel by air or automobile. Employees may be required to use personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, safety shoes, and shop coats, to ensure safety in the production environment. Employees may be able to lift up to 30 pounds as needed.

Company Description

Redwire Defense Tech is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Redwire Defense Tech is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact Human Resources. Continued employment remains on an “At-Will” basis.