Robotics Engineer; Santa Rosa

Robotics Engineer (Forward Deployed) | UAVs, Aerial Autonomy | Remote (US)

We're working with one of the most exciting venture-backed robotics startups in the defense‑tech space, building real‑time autonomous systems that are deployed directly into the field and used by operators in live environments. Backed by leading defense‑focused investors, this team develops mission‑critical aerial autonomy software that integrates into next‑generation defense platforms.

This role is ideal for someone who has built UAV or drone software hands‑on, taken systems from early concept through prototype, and enjoys working directly with customers to shape real‑world robotic systems.

• Designing and developing end‑to‑end UAV and aerial robotics software for defense‑focused use cases
• Building and iterating on autonomous systems using C++, Python, and ROS
• Prototyping UAV capabilities, running flight tests, gathering operator feedback, and refining rapidly
• Integrating navigation, mapping, computer vision, and sensor systems into a unified platform
• Working directly with operators and external stakeholders to understand system behavior in the field
• Debugging, troubleshooting, and optimizing systems for reliability in real‑world environments
• Collaborating closely with autonomy, hardware, and product teams from lab to deployment

• Hands‑on experience developing software for drones or UAVs
• Strong proficiency in C++ with solid robotics software fundamentals
• Experience working with navigation, mapping, or computer vision systems
• Familiarity with ROS and real‑time sensor data pipelines
• Comfort operating without rigid requirements and iterating through trial and error
• A systems‑level mindset, able to connect multiple parts of the robotics stack into a working solution
• Strong communication skills and confidence working directly with customers and operators

• PX4 or Ardupilot flight controller experience
• Startup or founding team experience with exceptional scope
• University robotics or drone competition teams
• SLAM, path planning, or perception integration experience
  
  Hands‑on hardware or prototyping exposure

• Work on cutting‑edge UAV autonomy with real‑world deployment
• Join a fast‑moving, VC‑backed startup with significant ownership and impact
• Full benefits package including health, dental, vision, 401(k), and flexibility
• See your software used directly by operators in critical environments

This role is open to US‑based engineers only.

US Citizenship or Green Card required (ITAR compliant).

Apply now or for more information, please contact Ciara Holmes at EVONA.