Principal Software Engineer (UAV Embedded)

Kratos Unmanned Systems; Roseville (CA); Hybrid; USD 220,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems (KUAS), a division of Kratos Defense, is hiring a Principal Software Engineer V to architect and implement mission‑critical UAV flight software for next‑generation flight computers. You will bridge complex flight algorithms with custom avionics hardware, developing high‑performance C++ applications ensuring deterministic control and reliability.

You will collaborate with electrical and GNC engineers to design physical‑digital interactions using MATLAB/Simulink,

Qualifications

• BS degree in Computing Science, Computer Science, Computer Engineering or similar; 18 years of experience in lieu of BS.
• 15 years of C or C++ programming experience.
• 3+ years aerospace/aviation/UAV software engineering experience.
• Solid understanding of object‑oriented programming principles and RTOS.
• Knowledge of software development life-cycle and documenting software requirements.
• Hands-on ability to troubleshoot hardware‑in‑the‑loop simulation and firmware updates.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance (U.S. citizenship).

Responsibilities

• Designs, develops, and tests C++ flight software and hardware, sensor, and actuator integrations.
• Analyzes and decomposes system requirements with other engineering disciplines.
• Writes software requirements specifications, software test descriptions, design descriptions, and test reports.
• Designs, implements, tests, and documents software according to KUAS specifications.
• Mentors mid‑level Software Engineers.
• Hybrid, work from office Tue/Wed/Thu in Roseville, CA.

Skills

C/C++ programming

Aerospace/UAV software

OOP principles

SDLC knowledge

HIL testing

Education

BS in CS/Computing Science/CE

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

VxWorks

LabVIEW

Job description

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting‑edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost‑effective solutions to market.

Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems (KUAS), a division of Kratos Defense, is renowned for its expertise in developing, delivering, integrating, and supporting high‑performance, cost‑effective, jet‑powered Unmanned Aerial Systems (Targets and Tactical). As a mid‑tier defense contractor, we’ve demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the US military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top‑notch jet‑powered subscale targets has established us as a go‑to defense contractor capable of delivering capabilities at an affordable price.

At KUAS, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team collaborates to cultivate a supportive and dynamic workplace, fostering creativity and promoting professional development while honoring personal and family lives. Join our team and help shape the future of unmanned technology within the defense industry today!

ABOUT THE JOB

As a Principal Software Engineer V (UAV Embedded), you will architect and implement mission‑critical software for our next‑generation UAV flight computers. You will be the primary link between complex flight algorithms and custom avionics hardware, developing high‑performance C++ applications that ensure deterministic control and absolute system reliability. Working at the intersection of hardware and software, you will collaborate with electrical and GNC (Guidance, Navigation, and Control) engineers to design and implement complex physical‑digital interactions with MATLAB/Simulink.

WHAT YOUiLL DO

• Designs, develops, and tests C++ flight software and hardware, sensor, and actuator integrations.
• Analyzes and decomposes system requirements collaboratively with other engineering disciplines.
• Writes software requirements specifications, software test descriptions, design descriptions, and test reports
• Designs, implements, tests, and documents software according to KUAS specifications
• Mentors mid‑level Software Engineers
• Hybrid, work from office T/W/Th in Roseville, CA

Compensation: $220,000 - $250,000

Keyword: SWE, Software Engineer V, Principal Software Engineer

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE:

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS A qualified candidate should have the expected year of service based on the JD. However, we can factor in entry level V qualified candidates in the compensation range.

• Requires BS degree in Computing Science, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or other technical discipline, 18 YOE in lieu of BS degree.
• 15 years of C or C++ programming experience
• 3+ years aerospace/aviation/UAV software engineering experience
• Demonstrated understanding of Object‑Oriented programming principles and RTOS systems.
• Demonstrated understanding of software development life‑cycle and clearly document software requirements.
• Hands on ability to troubleshoot hardware‑in‑the‑loop simulation modelling and make firmware updates
• Able to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance at the appropriate level (requires U.S. Citizenship).

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Skills with tools such as Atlassian, MATLAB/Simulink, VxWorks, LabView
• Skills implementing interface controls based on MBSE design documentation
• Previous familiarity with OMS/UCI, A-GRA, STANAG 4586, DO-178C, AS9100, DoDI 8500.01

WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Office and or manufacturing environment.
• Ability to stand and sit for long periods of time.
• Ability to perform repetitive motion (keyboarding, 10-key, phones).
• May work extended hours or weekends.
• May be required to lift up to 50 pounds in accordance with KUAS General Safety Training guidelines.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

• 5-10% May be required between other KUAS locations.

From: Kratos Defense