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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Software Engineer I/II - ArduPilot & Autonomous Systems - **Company:** BLUE OPS INC - **Location:** Fort Pierce, FL, United States - **Experience:** Experienced - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Testing (Software), Artificial Intelligence, Computing Platforms, JIRA, Automation of Tests, C++ (Programming Language), CAN Bus, Code Review, Communications Protocols, System Configuration, Cursor, Software Debugging, Linux, Hardware Design, Hardware-In-The-Loop Simulation, Python (Programming Language), Linux System Administration, Software Maintenance, Regression Testing, Serial Communications, System Software, Systems Integration, TCP/IP, Hardware Testing, Software Troubleshooting, Reliability of Systems, Gitlab, Git, Gitlab-ci, Deployment Automation, NVIDIA Jetson, OpenAI Codex, Software Version Control, GNSS, Docker - **Published:** October 26, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=bcd730a5bcc7bb1c ## About the Role * 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. ## Description * 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