Distributed Communications Network Engineer

HavocAI; United States; Remote; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative defense technology company is seeking a skilled Distributed Communications Network Engineer to design and optimize onboard software and networking stacks for distributed mobile systems. In this exciting role, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure robust communication across various network interfaces. You will have the opportunity to work in a dynamic environment focused on maritime robotics, contributing to groundbreaking solutions that enhance safety and efficiency in challenging marine conditions. Join a passionate team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of technology and making a real impact in the defense sector.

Benefits

100% Employer Paid Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401k Program

Unlimited PTO

Generous Equity Package

Qualifications

• Strong proficiency in C++ and hands-on experience with ROS2.
• Proven ability to conduct complex network tests and analyze performance.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize IP-based radio networks for vessel communication.
• Develop and maintain ROS2 nodes and packages for onboard hardware.

Skills

C++ Programming

Networking Fundamentals

Problem-Solving

Collaboration

Messaging Protocols

Education

BS in Electrical Engineering

MS in Computer Science

Tools

ROS2

Git

Wireshark

CMake

Job description

About Us:

HavocAI is an innovative defense technology company making scalable maritime autonomy a reality. We are pioneering an end-to-end solution for planning, tasking and control of uncrewed surface vessels (USVs). As we continue to quickly grow, we are looking for motivated individuals that are inspired to work within an extremely energetic, creative, and innovative team that is passionate about maritime robotics and exploring the open ocean. We work in a highly dynamic environment where collaboration and idea sharing are a way of life. We are looking for a skilled Distributed Communications Network Engineer who will participate on all product stages from research and development to design and manufacture, through to installation and final commissioning.

About the Role:

As a Distributed Communications Network Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing the onboard software and networking stack for distributed mobile systems operating in degraded environments. You will work closely with our autonomy, hardware, and cloud teams to ensure our vessels maintain robust communication across various network interfaces—Starlink, IP-based mesh radios, high latency SATCOM, and more. This role requires hands-on experience with developing communications application software in C++, ROS2, and Linux, as well as a solid understanding of networking fundamentals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Network Architecture & Implementation
  • Design, implement, and optimize IP-based radio networks for vessel-to-vessel communication.
  • Configure and manage network relaying and backhaul switching between Starlink, mesh radios, and other communication channels.
  • Conduct network performance testing, latency analysis, and troubleshooting to guarantee reliability.
• ROS2 & Middleware
  • Develop and maintain ROS2 nodes and packages that interface with onboard hardware and remote services.
  • Test, select, and implement appropriate software protocols for C2, data streaming, and sensor fusion.
  • Implement robust messaging architectures to ensure consistency and data synchronization across distributed systems.
• Systems Integration & Testing
  • Work alongside electrical and mechanical engineers to bring up new physical layer communication systems (waveforms, modules, RF systems, etc).
  • Perform system-level testing, debug complex hardware/software interactions, and document findings.
  • Support field deployments, including on-site troubleshooting of onboard compute systems and networking issues.
  • Develop, port, and maintain application software in C++ for Linux-based systems.
  • Integrate communication hardware into a cohesive architecture.
  • Ensure end-to-end system performance, reliability, and safety in challenging marine conditions.
• Continuous Improvement
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define system requirements, propose solutions, and deliver iterative improvements.
  • Suggest best practices for onboard software design, build workflows, and version control.
  • Drive adoption of new technologies, frameworks, and processes that enhance system reliability and performance.

Qualifications:

• Programming: Strong proficiency in C++.
• ROS2: Hands-on experience creating, debugging, and deploying ROS2 nodes/packages.
• Messaging protocols & Networking: Proven experience with messaging protocols (eg. MQTT, ZeroMQ, DDS), as well as IP-based communication layers. Experience with multi-node mobile mesh networks is highly desired.
• Systems Integration & Test: Proven ability to conduct complex network tests and analyze overall network performance (Wireshark, iPerf/jPerf, etc).
• Tools & Frameworks: Comfortable with version control (Git), CI/CD pipelines, and build systems (CMake, etc.).
• Problem-Solving: Ability to debug complex software/hardware interactions and resolve performance bottlenecks.
• Collaboration: Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to work across multidisciplinary teams.
• Nice-to-Have: Experience with marine robotics, Docker containers, or cloud orchestration tools. Experience standing up network emulation to improve realism in multi-agent SITL/HITL environments. Familiarity with hardware bring-up, embedded software, and low-level debugging (e.g., UART, I2C, SPI).
• Education: BS/MS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
• Must be a US Citizen and have the ability to obtain a Secret Clearance (if needed)

Location:

• This position can be fully remote

Compensation and Benefits:

• The target salary range for this position is $120,000 - 180,000
  • Salary is dependant on experience level
• 100% Employer paid Health, Dental and Vision Insurance for you and your families
• Ability to participate in the companies 401k program
• Unlimited PTO policy with an enforced 2 week minimum
• Generous Equity Package

Our Values:

• Innovation: We are driven to break new ground. Every day presents an opportunity to challenge the status quo, think boldly, and deliver advanced solutions that transform the future of defense technology.
• Integrity: We hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards, ensuring transparency, accountability, and trust in all our actions and partnerships.
• Mission-Driven: We are focused on achieving impactful outcomes that align with our core mission—protecting lives through innovation.
• Forward-Leaning: We continuously seek out new opportunities and remain at the forefront of technological advancements. We embrace change and anticipate the challenges of tomorrow with confidence and creativity.
• Ownership of All Tasks: At HavocAI, no problem is too complex or too trivial. We believe that greatness comes from tackling the hardest challenges, but also in handling the smallest, sometimes thankless, tasks with the same level of commitment and care.
• Servant Leadership: We lead by serving others, whether it’s supporting our employees, partners, or the broader community. Empowering those around us is key to achieving long-term success and making a lasting impact.
  

HavocAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.