Autonomy Software Lead - Real-Time Systems

AeroVironment, Inc.; Virginia Colony (CA); On-site; USD 123,000 - 187,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

401K with company matching

9/80 schedule

Paid holidays

Job summary

AeroVironment, Inc. seeks a Lead Software Engineer to design, develop, and deliver high-performance autonomy software applications across the full stack in an Agile setting.

The role emphasizes modern C++, real-time and safety-critical systems, and collaboration with systems engineers. You will own architecture decisions, support ground control station development for Android, and mentor junior engineers while interfacing with vendors and customers.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, CS, EE, math or physics or equivalent; or Master’s with 6+ years, or PhD with 4+ years.
• Extensive hands-on experience with modern C++, maintainable software architecture and modular system design.
• Experience with DDS or similar protocols and data distribution across constrained networks.
• Experience with mechatronic/hardware-integrated software and safety-critical real-time concepts.
• Ability to engage with technical and non-technical customers.

Responsibilities

• Develops C++ software to implement autonomy algorithms for real-time systems.
• Supports CI/CD pipelines and develops GCS software for Android.
• Owns architecture and design decisions ensuring maintainability.
• Evaluates tradeoffs for performance, reliability and schedule constraints.
• Troubleshoots issues with aircraft and payloads.
• Interfaces with vendors to integrate new payloads onto the platform.
• Develops technical documentation and user manuals.
• Collaborates with systems engineers for reliable system performance.
• Leads, mentors, and provides guidance within the team.

Skills

C++

DDS

CI/CD

Android development

Networking concepts

Education

Bachelor’s degree in computer engineering/CS/EE/Math/Physics

Master’s degree with 6 years related experience

PhD with 4 years related experience

Tools

CMake

GitLab

Docker

Android development tools

Job description

AeroVironment, Inc. seeks a Lead Software Engineer to design, develop, and deliver high-performance autonomy software applications across the full stack in an Agile setting.

The role emphasizes modern C++, real-time and safety-critical systems, and collaboration with systems engineers. You will own architecture decisions, support ground control station development for Android, and mentor junior engineers while interfacing with vendors and customers.