Robotic Software Engineer (Drone Stack)

Applied is hiring a Robotic Software Engineer (Drone Stack) for our full-time team in Washington, D.C. You'll architect and field-test autonomous systems that power unmanned aircraft across defense and commercial operations.

Position Summary

This role bridges autonomy research and real-world deployment. You'll own the integration of sophisticated drone intelligence systems—from algorithm to airframe—across both simulation and live-flight environments. Your focus will be ensuring that complex software-hardware chains work reliably when it matters most.

Key Responsibilities

• Shape modular autonomy capabilities tailored to diverse operational requirements
• Deploy autonomy stacks onto embedded Linux platforms with direct sensor and telemetry integration
• Diagnose and resolve hardware-software integration challenges in pursuit of system reliability
• Connect autopilot systems (Pixhawk-based platforms), data-link layers, sensor suites, and positioning/navigation infrastructure into cohesive vehicle stacks
• Conduct live flight validation on Group 1–5 unmanned aircraft
• Partner with third-party vehicle manufacturers to implement Applied autonomy software on production UAS hardware
• Execute end-to-end system verification via SIL and HIL simulation prior to field trials
• Collaborate with autonomy specialists on event-driven, distributed software architectures for autonomous vehicles

What You Bring

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Robotics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent discipline
• Minimum three years hands-on experience with robotic platforms (mechanical, firmware, and integration)
• Proficiency in C++ (modern standards like C++11, C++17, or C++20 preferred)
• Working knowledge of Pixhawk-compatible autopilot environments (ArduPilot, PX4)
• Experience with embedded communication protocols: UART/RS232/RS422/RS485, SPI/QSPI, I2C, Ethernet
• Hands-on experience deploying containerized applications in Docker across Linux (RHEL, Ubuntu)
• Proficiency with Git, VS Code, and GitLab workflows
• Understanding of real-time, edge computing, and safety-critical systems in SIL, HIL, and operational contexts
• Strong communication skills with a customer-focused mindset on cross-functional teams
• Ability and willingness to travel 10–20% for on-site integration work and demonstrations
• U.S. citizenship required
• Eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance required

Additional valued experience includes Bash and CMake development, FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, Agile development and CI/CD best practices, COTS hardware platforms such as Nvidia Jetson and Raspberry Pi, and active U.S. SECRET clearance.

Why Join Applied

Applied advances autonomy for the world's most complex machines. As a Robotic Software Engineer (Drone Stack) in Washington, D.C., you'll contribute to defense and commercial innovation at scale. Full-time team members receive competitive compensation—base salary ranging from $135,000 to $175,000 annually—paired with equity, comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life coverage, 401(k) matching, learning stipends, and paid time off. You'll work alongside engineers solving problems that matter and enjoy a supportive office culture that values both collaboration and flexibility.

Next Steps

To apply, complete your application directly on this page, or you'll be redirected to the employer's application platform to finish submitting there.