Senior Software Engineer, Autonomous Systems
Summary
Senior backend/service-layer engineer building command-and-control and autonomy software for robotic and autonomous systems: real-time sensor processing, platform/swarm integrations, and LLM/AI-enabled decision support across cloud and edge services. Hybrid role in California or relocation to Seattle, NYC, DC, or Palo Alto; requires U.S. citizenship and clearance eligibility.
About the Role
Join a customer-facing product engineering team building command-and-control and autonomy software for robotic and autonomous systems. You will develop cloud and edge services that help users integrate sensors, platforms, and AI-driven decision-making for demanding operational environments.
What You'll Do
Design, build, and optimize backend and service-layer software for mission-critical autonomous systems.
Develop real-time processing for heterogeneous sensor data, including state estimation and threat detection.
Build integrations with sensors, effectors, and autonomous platforms, including individual systems and swarms.
Develop LLM- and AI-enabled capabilities to assess situations and support rapid operational decisions.
Engineer reliable, scalable, and fail-safe services for high-stakes environments.
Work with robotics, hardware, sensing, AI, and systems engineering teams to deliver integrated solutions.
What We're Looking For
At least 4 years of hands-on backend or service-layer software engineering experience, with ownership of core services such as APIs, microservices, or middleware.
Proficiency in one or more of Rust, Python, C++, or Java, plus experience building real-time data and messaging integrations across external systems.
A technical degree in computer science, robotics, electrical engineering, or a related field.
Experience in autonomy, such as drones, robotics, autonomous vehicles, or factory automation, and a record of shipping software in fast prototype-to-field environments.
Practical engineering experience beyond algorithm, simulation, or ML research roles; familiarity with LLM systems, AI agents, or toolchains is beneficial.
Existing U.S. work authorization, U.S. citizenship, and eligibility to obtain a security clearance are required. Visa sponsorship is not available.
Compensation & Benefits
Annual base salary: $145,000 to $275,000 USD. Visa sponsorship is not available.
Location
Hybrid role based in California, United States. Candidates should be located in or willing to relocate to Seattle, New York City, Washington, D.C., or Palo Alto.
Skills
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