Lead Software Engineer

The primary role of the

Regular

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

• 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

• 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 Dev Ops practices (Git Lab 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)

• 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)

• 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.

No Clearance

$122,500 - $187,000

Aero Vironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills.

This position requires access to information that is…