Software Engineer I/II - ArduPilot & Autonomous Systems

• Develop, modify, and maintain ArduPilot/ArduRover C++ source code for unmanned

surface vessels

• Implement vessel-specific control functionality, including throttle, steering, gear shifting,

and engine control

• Develop and maintain ArduPilot SITL/HITL simulation and testing environments
• Create automated simulation and regression tests to validate vehicle behavior and

software changes

• Develop and test vehicle safety interlocks, operating modes, and failsafe functionality
• Integrate MAVLink telemetry, vehicle commands, parameters, and autonomous mission

execution

• Support ArduPilot integration with ATAK/WinTAK and third-party

command-and-control systems

• Integrate navigation sensors, propulsion interfaces, and other onboard vehicle hardware
• Troubleshoot autonomous control issues during development, simulation, hardware

testing, and on-water operations

• Collaborate with software, electrical, mechanical, and networking engineers
• Participate in code reviews, software testing, and release processes
• Maintain source code, technical documentation, and development tasks using GitLab and

Jira

• Use AI-assisted coding tools to improve development efficiency while validating

generated code through appropriate testing

• C++ and Python: Experience developing, debugging, and maintaining software in C++

and Python

• ArduPilot Development: Demonstrated hands-on experience modifying, building,

debugging, and testing ArduPilot source code

• ArduRover / USV: Experience with ArduRover for boats/USVs or equivalent ArduPilot

vehicle platforms

• SITL/HITL: Hands-on experience configuring, running, and troubleshooting ArduPilot

Software-in-the-Loop (SITL) and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL/HIL) testing

environments

• Automated Testing: Experience developing automated simulation tests, regression tests,

and validation workflows for autonomous vehicle software

• MAVLink: Understanding of telemetry, vehicle commands, parameters, mission

execution, and communication protocols

• Vehicle Control: Understanding of actuators, navigation, operating modes, and

safety/failsafe behavior

• Linux: Experience developing and troubleshooting software on Linux-based systems
• Version Control: Experience using Git, GitLab, or equivalent source-control platforms
• Project Management: Familiarity with Jira or similar issue-tracking systems
• AI-Assisted Development: Familiarity with generative AI coding tools such as Cursor,

OpenAI Codex, or similar

• Hardware Integration: Experience integrating software with sensors, embedded

hardware, or external control systems

Preferred Qualifications

• ATAK/WinTAK plugin development and integration
• TAK ecosystem experience, including Cursor on Target (CoT)
• Autonomous boat/USV development and on-water testing experience
• Marine propulsion, throttle, gear shifting, steering, and actuator control
• CAN bus, serial communications, and marine engine integration
• GNSS, IMUs, compass/heading sensors, and navigation systems
• NVIDIA Jetson and other embedded computing platforms
• TCP/IP, UDP, and remote vehicle communication systems
• Docker, GitLab CI/CD, and automated deployment workflows
• Experience with robotics, autonomous vehicles, or defense systems, * Has demonstrated experience working directly with ArduPilot source code rather than

only configuring or operating ArduPilot systems

• Enjoys developing and troubleshooting autonomous vehicle software
• Comfortable working with simulation environments and physical vehicle hardware
• Understands the importance of testing vehicle-control functionality before field

deployment

• Capable of independently implementing assigned software features with appropriate

technical guidance and code review

• Interested in autonomous maritime systems, robotics, and real-world engineering

challenges

• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with evolving requirements

Additional Requirements

• Ability to work hands-on with embedded hardware, sensors, and vehicle-control systems
• Willingness to participate in laboratory, dockside, and on-water testing
• Willingness to travel occasionally for field testing and integration activities
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
• Effective communication, teamwork, and technical documentation skills

Physical Requirements and Working Environment

This role combines office and laboratory work with hands-on vessel integration and outdoor testing.

• Ability to manually lift and carry equipment and materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to crawl, kneel, crouch, bend, climb, and work in confined or awkward spaces while installing, inspecting, and servicing equipment on and around vessels.
• Ability to safely board and move around boats, docks, and uneven or wet surfaces.
• Comfortable working outdoors and in marine environments, including dockside activities and on-water testing.
• Occasional travel and schedule flexibility may be required to support trials and demonstrations.

Background Check

This position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check. Qualified candidates with a criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal and state law.

Compensation: Base pay, plus generous annual equity package and potential bonuses.