Job Details

Software Engineer – Autonomous Flight Software at Poseidon Aerospace

We are seeking a Software Engineer to develop and maintain autonomous flight software for our aircraft. The role involves designing, implementing, and optimizing control algorithms, real‑time decision systems, and sensor integration to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient autonomous flight. We value innovative thinking and diverse backgrounds.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize autonomous flight software, including guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) algorithms for autonomous aircraft.
• Implement real‑time decision‑making systems for autonomous operations, managing dynamic flight conditions and environmental factors.
• Integrate software with onboard sensors, actuators, and avionics for autonomous mission execution and real‑time adaptation.
• Develop software for flight planning, collision avoidance, precision landing, and mission management.
• Test and validate software using simulation environments, hardware‑in‑the‑loop (HITL) setups, and real‑world flight testing.
• Conduct rigorous code reviews and implement best practices to ensure software reliability and performance in autonomous aircraft systems.
• Collaborate with aerospace, avionics, and field testing teams to ensure robust integration and reliable flight operation.
• Troubleshoot, debug, and optimize flight software in simulation and during field tests.

Ideal Qualifications

• Hands‑on experience with autonomous aircraft and flight control algorithms.
• Proficiency in C++, Python, or Rust for real‑time embedded systems.
• Experience with middleware such as ROS or similar frameworks.
• Track record of developing and deploying GNC algorithms on autonomous platforms.
• Experience with flight simulation environments, HITL testing, and real‑world autonomous flight testing.
• Experience with computer vision frameworks and integration into flight environments.
• Knowledge of sensor fusion, path planning, obstacle avoidance, and adaptive control techniques.
• Experience with safety‑critical software development, validation, and compliance in aviation.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and the ability to innovate on real‑world autonomous flight challenges.

Even if you don't meet every qualification listed, we encourage you to apply. At Poseidon Aerospace, we value diverse perspectives and are always looking for talented individuals with unconventional backgrounds.

Location: San Francisco, CA