Software Engineer II; UAV Embedded

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. is a leading defense technology company focused on unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include U.S. federal government agencies, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology, leveraging proven, cutting‑edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost‑effective solutions to market.

Software Engineer II (UAV Embedded) – You will architect and implement mission‑critical software for our next‑generation UAV flight computers. The XQ‑58, BQM‑177, BQM‑167, or MQM‑178 unmanned aerial vehicles are the platform. You will bridge complex flight algorithms and custom avionics hardware, developing high‑performance C and C++ applications that ensure deterministic control and absolute system reliability. Working at the intersection of hardware and software, you will collaborate with electrical and GNC (Guidance, Navigation, and Control) engineers to design and implement complex physical‑digital interactions with MATLAB/Simulink
. Compensation: $95,000 – $125,000

• Design, develop, and test C++ flight software and hardware integrations, sensor and actuator.
• Analyze and decompose system requirements collaboratively with other engineering disciplines.
• Write software requirements specifications, test descriptions, design descriptions, and test reports.
• Design, implement, test, and document software according to KUAS specifications.

• BS degree in Computing Science, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or other technical discipline, or 7 YOE in lieu of BS degree.
• 4 years of C or C++ programming experience.
• Demonstrated understanding of Object‑Oriented programming principles and RTOS systems.
• Demonstrated understanding of software development life‑cycle and clear documentation of software requirements.
• Hands‑on ability to troubleshoot hardware‑in‑the‑loop simulation modelling and make firmware updates.

• Experience with Atlassian, MATLAB/Simulink, VxWorks, Lab View.
• Experience implementing interface controls based on MBSE design documentation.
• Previous familiarity with OMS/UCI, A‑GRA, STANAG 4586, DO‑178C, AS910.

• Office and/or manufacturing environment.
• Ability to stand and sit for long periods of time.
• Ability to perform repetitive motion (keyboarding, 10‑key, phones).
• May work extended hours or weekends.
• May be required to lift up to 50 pounds in accordance with KUAS General Safety Training guidelines.

• 5–10% may be required between other KUAS locations.

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Coverage
• Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
• Paid Time‑Off (PTO)
• Holidays
• Education Reimbursement

Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity, affirmative action employer. EOE, Minorities, Females, Vet, Disabled, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity or any other protected class. All qualified job seekers are encouraged to apply.
Kratos Defense is committed to America’s veterans by providing opportunities for them to continue contributing after service to our nation. We also work to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.

If you require an accommodation to navigate or apply to our careers site, please send your request to HRAc or call 858‑964‑2916. Any inquiries not related to requesting an accommodation will be discarded.

The company will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant.

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