Drone Autonomy Integration Engineer (Lab to Flight)

Decisive Point; Sunnyvale (CA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Applied Intuition is seeking an Autonomy Integration Engineer to bridge hardware, edge software, and field operations. Split roughly 50/50 between lab and airfield, you will bring aerial systems from benchtop to live flight.

The role includes configuring embedded Linux, deploying containerized software, wiring, and field testing with mesh radios. Located in Sunnyvale, CA or Fort Walton Beach, FL, relocation is offered.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in robotics integration, flight test engineering, embedded systems, or autonomous vehicles.
• Proficiency with Linux CLI, remote work, and containerized deployments (Docker).
• Hands-on hardware skills: soldering, wiring, bench diagnostics with scopes/meters.
• Strong Python/C++ or Shell scripting for automation and data processing.
• Experience with UAV protocols (UART, CAN, Ethernet, SPI, I2C) and IP networking.
• Ability to lead integration efforts and coordinate software, GNC, hardware teams.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent education/experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead System Bring-Up: drive hardware/software integration from benchtop to flight.
• Deploy & Configure Edge Software: manage Docker-based stacks across onboard compute.
• Field & Bench Troubleshooting: diagnose networks, payloads, and sensors in real time.
• Build Test Tooling & Glue Code: develop Python/C++ scripts for data logs and validation.
• System Cabling & Electronics: fabricate wiring harnesses and soldering at bench.
• Manage Communications & Networks: configure routing between flight controllers and radios.

Skills

Leadership

Linux CLI

Soldering & bench work

Python & C++

Networking

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Tools

Docker

Oscilloscope

Multimeter

Job description

Applied Intuition is seeking an Autonomy Integration Engineer to bridge hardware, edge software, and field operations. Split roughly 50/50 between lab and airfield, you will bring aerial systems from benchtop to live flight.

The role includes configuring embedded Linux, deploying containerized software, wiring, and field testing with mesh radios. Located in Sunnyvale, CA or Fort Walton Beach, FL, relocation is offered.