Integrations Engineer

Who We Are

At Firestorm, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower U.S. ally nations to effectively deter aggressors — regardless of their defense budget — through innovative, cost‑efficient technologies. We call this vision “democratized deterrence.” As a VC‑backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we’re pioneering the development of mission‑adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators.

By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we’re pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world‑class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting‑edge technology accessible to all at a fraction of the cost.

Firestorm Labs is seeking an experienced and driven Senior Integrations Engineer to support the integration of advanced payloads into our next‑generation Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS). You will work directly with customers at a Department of Defense (DoD) installation to specify, install, test and troubleshoot their custom physical and digital payloads. This role requires a strong background in avionics, embedded systems, RF communications, tactical networking, and real‑time software integration.

You will collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams to effectively integrate customer‑defined payloads, including the platform, autonomy and software engineering, to deliver mission‑ready systems in high‑pressure environments. The ideal candidate is a hands‑on problem solver with strong technical depth, a background in UAV systems and the ability to lead complex integration, mission‑ready solutions.

• Integrate avionics, mission payloads, flight controllers, and embedded subsystems while meeting reliability, safety, and performance standards.
• Configure, manage, and troubleshoot tactical and airborne networks, including RF links and embedded communications systems.
• Diagnose and resolve electromechanical, avionics, and embedded software issues in lab and field environments.
• Translate mission requirements into clear technical specifications.
• Develop and maintain embedded and application‑level software. Write scripts and tools in Python, Bash, Shell, and C/C++ for automation, testing, and integration.
• Create and execute test plans, validate performance, analyze results, and provide technical recommendations.
• Partner with our Technical Writer(s) to develop documentation including integration guides, test reports, user manuals and troubleshooting materials.
• Collaborate across teams and use Firestorm’s additive manufacturing and simulation tools to accelerate development.
• Provide performance data and constructive feedback to hardware design and manufacturing teams.
• Perform repair and rework on Firestorm's product line, and third‑party hardware systems, ensuring continued mission readiness.
• Support the preparation, configuration, and deployment of MECCS (Modular Electronic Command and Control Systems).
• Assemble and integrate custom or ad‑hoc payloads, both hardware and software, based on mission & customer‑specific needs.
• Stay informed about the latest technologies in avionics, embedded systems, tactical networking, and unmanned systems.

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Electrical, Systems, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in systems integration, troubleshooting, and field operations.
• U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations & the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance.
• Strong networking knowledge, including configuration and troubleshooting of Ethernet, TCP/IP, VPNs, VLANs, and wireless systems.
• Proficient with Linux (Ubuntu, CentOS, Red Hat) and Windows systems, with strong command‑line skills.
• Programming and scripting experience in Python, Bash, Shell, and C/C++, including embedded software development.
• Skilled in troubleshooting across avionics systems, embedded software, RF equipment, and integrated hardware stacks.
• Familiarity…