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# Lead Software Engineer

- **Company:** AeroVironment, Inc.
- **Location:** United States
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Salary:** $122,500.0 - $187,000.0
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Java (Programming Language), Agile Methodology, Android Software Development, Software Applications, Systems Engineering, CMake, Computer Engineering, Data Distribution Service, Linux, DevOps, Software Deployment, Software Engineering, Software Systems, Real Time Systems, Gitlab, Kotlin, Information Technology, Build Tools, C++14, Docker, Service Stack
- **Published:** October 12, 2026
- **Apply:** https://startup.jobs/lead-software-engineer-aerovironment-inc-10436692

## About the Role

* Bachelor's degree in computer engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Math, or Physics is required or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience; or Master's degree in a STEM discipline with 6 years of related experience; or PhD with 4 years of related experience

 * Extensive, hands-on experience with modern C++, maintainable software architecture, and modular system design

 * Experience with DDS (Data Distribution Service) or similar protocols, including managing data distribution across disparate nodes over constrained networks, and general knowledge of networking topologies and principles

 * Experience developing software for mechatronic or hardware-integrated systems, including familiarity with safety-critical concepts such as determinism and real-time systems

 * Ability to engage directly with technical and non-technical customers

Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies

 * Hands-on knowledge of CMake or similar build systems; able to support cross-platform builds for Android and Linux (x86 and ARM)

 * Experience with UAS, drones, robotics, autonomous vehicles, or other embedded systems

 * Experience with CI/CD pipelines and DevOps practices (GitLab or similar)

 * Experience with Docker - used for application deployment, development and testing environments

 * Kotlin or Java experience (e.g., for Android development)

 * Comfortable taking ownership across multiple areas of a project rather than working in a narrow, siloed role

 * Willingness to travel locally (Occasionally)

Physical Demands

 * Ability to work in an office environment (Constant)

 * Required to stand and sit for long periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard (Frequent)

Special Requirements

 * U.S. Citizenship required. Presently holds or capable of obtaining a U.S. Security Clearance
 * Occasionally may be required to travel within the Continental U.S., This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations ("ITAR") and/or the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR"). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment's determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment's business requirements. A "U.S. person" according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract, U.S. Citizenship required. Must be willing to work on government contracts and have the ability to obtain a security clearance.

## Description

The primary role of the Lead Software Engineer is to design, develop, and deliver high-performance, mission-critical, and autonomy software applications. This role focuses on building modern, scalable systems across the full technology stack, working in an Agile environment to support complex operational needs., * Develops C++ software to implement autonomy algorithms for real time systems that interact with various payloads

 * Support and integrate CI/CD pipelines

 * Supports the development of ground control station (GCS) software for Android

 * Owns architecture and design decisions for software systems, ensuring alignment with program requirements and long-term maintainability. Evaluates technical tradeoffs and risk across performance, reliability, and schedule constraints

 * Troubleshoots technical issues with aircraft and payloads

 * Interfaces with 3rd party vendors to integrate new payloads onto the platform

 * Develops user manuals and other technical documentation

 * Collaborates with systems engineers and other software disciplines to ensure consistent, reliable system performance

 * Partners with the Chief Engineer and Product Line Manager to define requirements, plan new projects, and evaluate emerging opportunities

 * Operates in a continuous learning environment; provides technical leadership, guidance, and mentoring to less experienced engineers