> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/3234173-autopilot-software-engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/3234173-autopilot-software-engineer). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Autopilot Software Engineer - **Company:** Callen Lenz - **Location:** Berwick Saint Leonard, UK - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** £50,000.0 - £60,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Testing (Software), Agile Methodology, C++ (Programming Language), Communications Protocols, Global Positioning Systems (GPS), Python (Programming Language), Linux System Administration, Log Analysis, Lua (Scripting Language), Open Source Technology, PID Controllers, Performance Tuning, Systems Development Life Cycle, Software Engineering, Product Software Implementation Methods, Software Requirements Analysis, Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), Deployment Automation, Lidar, Programming Languages - **Published:** September 18, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=3c25b653efcbbc6f ## About the Role * BSc or MSc degree in an Engineering or Science subject is desirable. Preferably with experience in aeronautical or aviation industries. Skills and Experience Essential: * Proven hands-on experience with Ardupilot, PX4, or similar open-source autopilot stacks. * Strong knowledge of MAVLink, mission planning, and UAV communication protocols. * Practical experience with UAV tuning, flight testing, and log analysis (Mission Planner, MAVProxy, etc.). * Excellent working knowledge of C++ * Ability to work independently in a fast-paced R&D environment. * Experience working with communication protocols such as: CAN, SPI, I2C, UDP, TCP. * Experience taking a design from software requirements definition through to completion. Desirable: * Familiarity with Linux environments and Ardupilot SITL. * Exposure to other programming languages such as LUA (strong plus), Python, Rust. * Knowledge of safety related engineering practices. * Working in an Agile environment. * Background of aeronautics and control systems. * Familiarity with PID control loops. * Experience with flight control systems. * General interest in aviation., * Must be a British Citizen or have an existing right to work in the UK. * Ability to commit to occasional national and international travel. * A full valid UK driving license. * Excellent communicator. * Excellent problem-solving ability. * Ability to work well in a team. * Enthusiasm for their work and self-motivated. * Ability to hold Security Clearance - 5 years residence in the UK. ## Description As an Autopilot Software Engineer, you will be working on cutting-edge UAV projects. This exciting role will place the right candidate at the forefront of unmanned air systems development in the UK. Working within the Autopilot team, you will be supporting in the delivery of engineering outputs including software requirements, software design, software implementation and software testing. Applying your knowledge and principles of engineering to assist in the implementation of aircraft control systems to a high degree of safety and reliability. Responsibilities * Develop, configure, and test Ardupilot-based flight control systems for various UAV platforms. * Test and optimise flight behaviours, parameters, and mission execution in both SITL (Software-in-the-Loop) and real flight environments. * Support sensor integration (GPS, cameras, LiDAR, etc.) and ensure robust flight performance. * Contribute to documentation, simulation environments, and internal development standards. * Assist in software high-level requirements capture and documentation. * Support software architectural design. * Contribution to innovation by assisting in research into and application of emergent technologies. * Support the implementation of the Software Engineering Quality Practices. * Participation in peer reviews. * Perform other related duties as required. Health and Safety * Demonstrate in daily activities a commitment to health and safety in the workplace by always ensuring tasks are performed in the safest possible manner. * Report all hazards and incidents that the individual is party to, or observes, in the correct manner. * When required or directed, participate in any health and safety training. ## Related Videos - [How to develop an autonomous car end-to-end: Robotic Drive and the mobility revolution](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/22-how-to-develop-an-autonomous-car-end-to-end-robotic-drive-and-the-mobility-revolution) - [Docker exec without Docker](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1094-docker-exec-without-docker) - [ The attacker's footprint](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/375-the-attacker-s-footprint) - [Code to Road in < 12 hours](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1082-code-to-road-in-12-hours) - [Remote Driving on Plant Grounds with State-of-the-Art Cloud Technologies](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/251-remote-driving-on-plant-grounds-with-state-of-the-art-cloud-technologies) - [Automated Driving - Why is it so hard to introduce](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/628-automated-driving-why-is-it-so-hard-to-introduce) ## Related Articles - [How software is steering vehicle technology](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/515-how-software-is-steering-vehicle-technology) - [Fully Remote Software Engineer Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/447-fully-remote-software-engineer-jobs) - [Where To Find Software Engineering Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/396-where-to-find-software-engineering-jobs) - [The 12 Best Jobs for Software Engineers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/401-the-12-best-jobs-for-software-engineers) - [Data Engineer Salary UK](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/253-data-engineer-salary-uk) - [Fullstack Developer Salary UK](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/251-fullstack-developer-salary-uk)