Senior Embedded Software Engineer - UAS

COLSA; Madison (AL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

COLSA in Madison, Alabama is seeking an experienced Embedded Software Engineer to design, develop, test, and integrate software for sUAS systems and sensors across the full development lifecycle from concept through flight testing and deployment.

The role requires a BS or higher in a technical field, 8+ years of related experience, Linux-based embedded platforms, and familiarity with autonomy frameworks such as PX4, ArduPilot, MAVLink, and ROS. On-site work in Madison, Alabama.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field.
• 8+ years of related experience.
• Experience developing software for sUAS/UAV, autonomous aircraft, or robotic platforms.
• Experience with Linux-based embedded platforms and technologies (ARM, microcontrollers, SBC).
• Knowledge of UAS electrical/sensor integration or avionics.
• Experience with PX4, ArduPilot, MAVLink, ROS/ROS 2, or comparable autonomy frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Designs, develops, tests, integrates, and troubleshoots software for sUAS systems and sensors.
• Develops and applies advanced software engineering methods to solve complex problems.
• Supports software development lifecycle: design, implementation, integration, testing, deployment.
• Performs modeling, simulation, analysis, and complex software testing.
• Collaborates with hardware engineers on software-related considerations.
• Plans and leads projects or major phases with cross-functional teams.
• Reviews technologies and engineering practices for projects.
• Evaluates software products and supports documentation.

Skills

Embedded software development

Linux embedded systems

C/C++

ARM microcontrollers

UAS/UAV software

Autonomy frameworks

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/Engineering

Tools

PX4

ArduPilot

MAVLink

ROS/ROS 2

Job description

Tracking Code 9800-987

Posted Date 9/25/2026

Job Location Madison, Alabama

Location of Position Madison, Alabama

Work Arrangement On Site: 100%

Position Type Full-Time/Regular

Clearance Required? No

• None

As COLSA continues to expand our uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) capabilities, we’re seeking an experienced Embedded Software Engineer to join our growing team in Madison, Alabama. You’ll design, develop, test, and integrate software for sUAS systems and sensors, supporting the full development lifecycle from initial design through integration, flight testing, and deployment.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities (*Essential Functions)

• Designs, develops, tests, integrates, and troubleshoots software for sUAS systems and sensors.*
• Develops and applies advanced software engineering methods and techniques to solve complex technical problems.*
• Supports software development throughout the lifecycle, including design, implementation, integration, testing, and deployment.*
• Performs systems modeling, simulation, analysis, and complex software testing.*
• Works closely with hardware engineers on characteristics and considerations that affect software systems.*
• Plans and technically leads projects or major phases of projects, coordinating with engineers and technical support staff as needed.*
• Reviews current technologies and engineering practices relevant to assigned projects.
• Reviews technical products and supports implementation and documentation of new or existing software.
• Provides technical consultation and may evaluate vendor products, services, or capabilities as needed.

At COLSA, people are our most valuable resource and centered at our core value. We invite you to unite your talents with opportunity and be a part of our "Family of Professionals!" Learn about our employee-centric culture and benefits here: https://www.colsa.com/culture_benefits

Required Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 8 years of related experience.
• Experience developing software for sUAS/UAV, autonomous aircraft, or other robotic platforms.
• Experience with Linux-based embedded platforms and technologies such as ARM processors, microcontrollers, or single-board computers.
• Knowledge of UAS electrical systems, payload integration, sensor integration, or avionics.
• Experience with PX4, ArduPilot, MAVLink, ROS/ROS 2, or comparable autonomy frameworks.
• Experience supporting the full system development lifecycle, from initial requirements and design through implementation, integration, flight testing, and deployment.
• Willing and able to obtain an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate if required for the position.
• U.S. Citizenship required; must be able to complete a criminal background check and/or obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance, if required for the position.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with aerospace/defense development processes, configuration management, and formal verification and validation.
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.

Applicant selected may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. COLSA Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disabled. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.

Salary Type

Annually

The salary range, if referenced, represents a good faith estimate. COLSA considers various factors when determining base salary offers, but not limited to, location, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements.

COLSA offers a comprehensive and customizeable benefits program which includes Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Supplemental Income Protection Programs, 401(k) with company match, Flexible Spending Accounts, Employee Assistance Program, Education & Certification Reimbursement, Employee Discount Program, Paid Time Off and Holidays.

This position will be posted for a minimum of 3 business days. If a candidate has not been selected at that time, it will continue to be posted until a suitable candidate is selected or the position is closed.