C++ Software Engineer – Applications & Systems

C++ Software Engineer – Applications & Systems About Forterra

Forterra is a leading provider of autonomous systems for ground-based movement in the working world. Amongst some of the earliest innovators in the field of driverless technology, Forterra is focused on building systems that protect front‑line soldiers and enable civilian workers in our industrial base. Forterra is the go‑to provider of ground autonomy solutions for the U.S. Department of Defense, which harnesses the technology for asymmetric warfare in critical conditions.

We are seeking a C++ Software Engineer – Applications & Systems to join our Command, Control, & Communications team. This team develops Terra Link
, Forterra’s core user interface and control software for autonomous ground vehicles. Terra Link provides real‑time situational awareness, vehicle monitoring, and direct command‑and‑control capabilities in both defense and commercial settings.

• Design, implement, and maintain advanced C++ applications in a Linux environment
• Build intuitive, performant user interfaces with Qt and QML
• Develop backend integration with autonomy systems, including messaging, networking, and data exchange
• Contribute to graphics programming, real‑time data visualization, and operator workflows
• Collaborate with a cross‑functional team to deliver vehicle interface modules, networking features, and mission‑critical UI components
• Promote software quality, maintainability, and reliability in production environments
• Document software designs and features to support operational use

• BS in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent practical experience)
• 4+ years of professional software development experience
• Strong proficiency in modern C++ and application development
• Experience developing in Linux‑based environments
• Proven ability to design and deliver complex, feature‑rich applications
• Strong collaboration and communication skills; self‑motivated and effective in a fast‑paced environment

• Qt / QML for UI and front‑end application development
• Graphics programming and real‑time visualization
• Experience with GIS rendering and map‑based visualization
• DDS or other publish/subscribe messaging middleware
• Experience with video processing pipelines (e.g., GStreamer)
• Build and dependency management (CMake, Conan, Git)
• Background in robotics, automotive, or defense/tactical software systems
• Familiarity with test‑driven development and CI pipelines

• BS in computer science or a related field, or equivalent amount of relevant industry experience.
• 4+ years of industry experience.

$130,000—$165,000

The salary range for this role is an estimate and is based on a wide variety of compensation factors. The salary offered to candidates will vary based on a variety of factors including (but not limited to) relevant work experience, education, specialized training, critical expertise, training, and more. Equity in Forterra is included in most of our full‑time, high‑demand roles and is therefore considered part of Forterra’s overall compensation package.

In addition to base salary and equity, Forterra offers competitive benefits for full‑time employees including:

• Premium Healthcare Benefits:
  Three plan options, including an HSA‑eligible plan, with Forterra covering 80% of the plan premium for you and your dependents.
• Basic Life/AD&D, short and long‑term disability insurance, Legal &  plans 100% covered by Forterra, plus the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your dependents.
• Extremely generous company holiday calendar including a winter break in December.
• Competitive paid time off (PTO) offering 20 days accrued per year.
• A minimum of 7 weeks fully paid parental leave for birth/adoption.
• A $9k annual tuition reimbursement or professional development stipend.
• Fully stocked beverage refrigerators with all the Celsius your little heart desires.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan, including traditional, Roth 401(k), and after‑tax deferral with company match up to 4%.

This position may require eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. security…