Principal Software Engineer (UAV Embedded)

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

Job summary

Kratos Defense is seeking a Principal Software Engineer V (UAV Embedded) to architect and implement mission-critical C++ software for next-generation UAV flight computers. You will bridge complex flight algorithms with custom avionics hardware, collaborating with GNC engineers to ensure deterministic control and absolute system reliability.

Hybrid work from the Roseville, CA office Tue/Wed/Thu; compensation $220,000–$250,000.

Qualifications

• 15 years of C/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 firmware updates.
• Able to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance (U.S. Citizenship required).

Responsibilities

• 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

Skills

C/C++ programming

Object-Oriented programming

RTOS experience

System requirements analysis

Mentoring

Education

BS in Computing Science / Computer Science / Computer Engineering

18+ years of experience in lieu of BS

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

VxWorks

LabVIEW

Atlassian tools

Job description

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.

Hybrid, work from office T/W/Th in Roseville, CA

Compensation: $220,000 - $250,000

Keyword: SWE, Software Engineer V, Principal Software Engineer

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

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