Senior C++ Software Engineer — Autonomous Drone Systems

InvestedintheMission; Lawrence (KS); On-site; USD 112,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

401K with company matching

9/80 work schedule

Holiday shutdown

Job summary

AeroVironment is seeking a Sr. Software Engineer (Applications) to design, develop, test, and maintain software for ground control systems and payload interfaces, including Android components and cloud-based tools.

The role emphasizes ownership of architecture and collaboration with systems engineers to ensure reliable, safety‑conscious software. You will mentor junior engineers, work in an Agile environment, and contribute to cross‑domain projects that span hardware‑integrated systems and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline with 8 years of related experience; 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 (Data Distribution Service) or similar protocols, including data distribution across disparate nodes over constrained networks
• Experience developing software for mechatronic or hardware‑integrated systems, including safety-critical concepts such as determinism and real-time systems
• Ability to engage directly with technical and non-technical customers

Responsibilities

• Develops C++ software to implement control algorithms, interface with ground control station (GCS) software, and integrate with various payloads
• Supports the development of GCS software for Android
• Owns architecture and design decisions for software systems, ensuring alignment with program requirements and long-term maintainability
• Troubleshoots technical issues with aircraft and payloads
• Interfaces with 3rd party vendors to integrate new payloads onto the platform
• Develops user manuals and other technical documentation
• Collaborates with systems engineers and other software disciplines to ensure consistent, reliable system performance
• Partners with the Chief Engineer and Product Line Manager to define requirements, plan new projects, and evaluate emerging opportunities
• Operates in a continuous learning environment; provides technical leadership, guidance, and mentoring to less experienced engineers

Skills

C++

Real-time systems

Networking basics

Android development

Customer interaction

Education

STEM degree (Bachelor/Master/PhD)

Tools

CMake

Docker

GitLab

Android

Job description

AeroVironment is seeking a Sr. Software Engineer (Applications) to design, develop, test, and maintain software for ground control systems and payload interfaces, including Android components and cloud-based tools.

The role emphasizes ownership of architecture and collaboration with systems engineers to ensure reliable, safety‑conscious software. You will mentor junior engineers, work in an Agile environment, and contribute to cross‑domain projects that span hardware‑integrated systems and