Software Integration Engineer - Autonomous Systems

About Forterra

At Forterra, we are unleashing autonomy at scale to transform the battlefield. Our mission is to build the foundational platforms that enable an intelligent ecosystem to coordinate, adapt, and execute with speed and precision even in the uncertainty and disruption of modern conflict. In an era marked by rapid technological change and evolving threats, we design for flexibility, survivability, and operational dominance.

Forterra delivers weapons, sensors, and battlefield effects through integrated autonomous networks reaching operational areas faster, safer, and without placing human lives  systems operate with distributed control, dynamic routing, and real‑time responsiveness, enabling sustained advantage across complex mission environments.

Forterra is seeking a talented Software Integration Engineer with a passion for autonomous systems to design, develop, and optimize software solutions that enable intelligent behavior in robotics and automation technologies. The ideal candidate has a strong software development background, familiarity with robotics and autonomous systems, and proven track record of collaborating with a cross‑functional team of engineers, researchers, and product managers to create robust and scalable software for complex systems.

• Design and implement software using C++ in a Linux environment
• Work with stakeholders to define requirements and integrate and verify systems
• Integrate software into production platforms and deploy it
• Develop and maintain software solutions, including debugging, maintenance, and updating
• Test and evaluate performance of software features in both simulation and on‑vehicle
• Work with cross‑functional teams to ensure reliable and effective vehicle behavior
• Analyze test results, identify issues, and collaborate with engineering teams to resolve problems
• Provide performance data and constructive feedback to hardware design and manufacturing teams
• Travel ranging from 10‑25% and 25‑50% depending on candidate preference and role placement
• Ability to commute to Clarksburg, MD as needed.

• 5 or more years of relevant experience
• B.S. in computer science, engineering, robotics, or related field
• Experience in integrating software on hardware products
• Strong programming skills in languages such as C++, Python, or Java
• Solid core software engineering skills: software design, unit testing, debugging
• Ability to consistently deliver production‑quality software in a continuously integrated environment
• Strong understanding of algorithms, data structures, and software design principles
• Demonstrates clean, maintainable code and documentation practices
• Experience working in teams and a willingness to proactively solve problems

• Experience in software development for robotics and autonomous systems
• Experience with safety‑critical systems (e.g., MIL‑STD‑882, ISO‑26262, DO‑178)
• Experience with state machines and motion / path planning
• Knowledge of navigation and mapping algorithms
• Familiarity with real‑time operating systems and embedded programming
• Leadership experience on cross‑functional software teams

US Salary Range
$130,000—$200,000

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 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…