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# Autonomy Software Engineer

- **Company:** Universal Vat Services, Inc.
- **Location:** Los Angeles, CA, United States (Remote available)
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Salary:** $160,000.0 - $230,000.0
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Computer Vision, C++ (Programming Language), Nvidia CUDA, Computer Programming, Software Debugging, Linux, Python (Programming Language), Motion Planning, Object Detection, OpenCV, Tensorflow, Sensor Fusion, Software Deployment, Robot Operating System, Pytorch, Deep Learning, Git, Information Technology, Docker
- **Published:** September 11, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.thejobnetwork.com/job/0548203f-205b-4662-b488-b4bcb2b8b00a/senior-autonomy-software-engineer

## About the Role

* 5+ years of experience shipping autonomy or perception software on physical autonomous vehicles, UAVs, or robotic platforms.
 * Hands-on experience building an autonomy system from scratch (0-to-1), not inheriting a mature codebase.
 * Strong ML/deep learning skills for perception - object detection, tracking, and classification.
 * Proficiency in CUDA programming for GPU-accelerated perception and ML on embedded platforms (e.g., Nvidia Jetson).
 * Experience with path planning, sensor fusion, state estimation, or classical computer vision.
 * Solid command of C++, Python, ROS, PyTorch or TensorFlow, OpenCV, Linux, Git, and Docker.
 * Background in simulation workflows (SIL/HIL) and containerized deployment.
 * BS or higher in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field; strong academic fundamentals are a plus.
 * Prior experience at a fast-paced autonomy or defense-tech startup is a strong plus.
 * Comfortable working in the defense sector on weapons systems.
 * U.S. citizen or permanent resident eligible for a security clearance.

## Description

* Design and implement the complete autonomy stack from the ground up - covering mission planning, path planning, object detection/recognition, obstacle avoidance, and autonomous decision-making for underwater operations.
 * Develop both ML-based and classical perception pipelines optimized for power-constrained embedded compute (Nvidia Jetson Orin AGX).
 * Drive the vehicle from prototype to executing multi-day autonomous missions within your first 90 days.
 * Support field testing - deploying scale models in dive pools, running ocean sea trials, and performing live telemetry debugging from shore.
 * Own your systems end-to-end as a Responsible Engineer: from requirements and architecture through simulation, field validation, and production deployment.


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