Autonomy Software Engineer – Path Planning; C+ + Software

Autonomy Software Engineer – Path Planning (C++) Develop and Deploy Robust Autonomous Path Planning Algorithms for Aerial Vehicles

Location:

Sunnyvale, California, United States

Base Salary Range: $150,000 – $200,000 USD per year

At Applied, your role is pivotal. You will develop, integrate, and test core path‑planning capabilities that span all classes of aerial platforms (Group 1-5). You will work closely with teams across the company to integrate core GNC algorithms into their software and product stacks, supporting applications in both commercial and defense spaces.

• Write software that operates real autonomous aircraft systems, including fighter aircraft, maritime surface vessels, group 1-5 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and simulated models to accomplish tactical military missions.
• Build, leverage, and improve aerial autonomy software architectures that are ultimately tested and deployed on real systems to accomplish military missions.
• Collaborate with DoD warfighter domain experts and third‑party UAS vehicle vendors to develop and integrate aerial autonomy software onto OEM hardware.

• 3-5 years of professional experience in autonomous vehicle motion planning, robotics, or a related field.
• Experience in 3D+ path planning using sampling‑based methods such as RRT
  * or similar.
• Experience in 2/2.5‑D grid‑based planning methods such as A
  * or similar.
• Experience developing autonomy algorithms in either C++ or Python.
• Experience developing or implementing outer‑loop control systems.
• Strong functional, procedural, data‑oriented, and object‑oriented programming experience.
• Experience using Git, Visual Studio Code, and Git Lab.

• Experience with UAS GNC/navigation systems such as PX4 and Ardupilot.
• Ability to use data visualization and debugging tools to support autonomy control development.
• Experience developing in Docker and containerized development environments, using Linux‑based operating systems (e.g., RHEL, Ubuntu), source control systems, and artifact registries.

• Must be willing to travel as projects require; estimated average travel is once every other month for between 2 days up to 1 week (~20%).

• Must be a U.S. Citizen.
• Must hold or be eligible for a U.S. Secret security clearance.

Compensation at Applied Intuition for eligible roles includes base salary, equity, and benefits. Base salary is a single component of the total compensation package, which may also include equity in the form of options and/or restricted stock units, comprehensive health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance coverage, 401(k) retirement benefits with employer match, learning and wellness stipends, and paid time off.

Benefits may vary by jurisdiction.

Applied Intuition is an equal‑opportunity employer and federal contractor or subcontractor. The company complies with applicable laws and regulations, including those concerning anti‑discrimination based on protected veteran status or disability, and affirmative action requirements.