Senior Integrations Engineer, Embedded Platform

Firestorm; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 176,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k)

Life insurance

Long term disability insurance

Unlimited PTO

Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance

Job summary

A defense solutions company in San Diego is seeking a Senior Integrations Engineer to develop and integrate platform and avionics systems for next-generation unmanned aerial systems. The role requires at least 5 years of experience in avionics integration, strong problem-solving skills, and hands-on expertise in systems integration. The ideal candidate will work closely with cross-functional teams ensuring reliability and performance in a fast-paced environment. Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits offered.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in Systems or Avionics Engineering.
• Experience working hands-on with systems integration and troubleshooting.

Responsibilities

• Design and maintain embedded and application-level software.
• Configure, manage, and troubleshoot tactical and airborne networks.
• Create and execute test plans, validate performance, maintain traceability.

Skills

Avionics integration

Problem-solving

Network configuration

Programming in Python

Embedded systems troubleshooting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Computer Science

Tools

Linux (Ubuntu)

Model-Based Systems Engineering tools

Software Defined Radios (SDR)

Job description

Company Overview

At Firestorm, we are on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are crafted and delivered. Our goal is to empower US ally nations to effectively deter aggressors, regardless of their defense budget constraints, through innovative, cost-efficient technologies. As a VC-backed company, we are pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that prioritize operator effectiveness. Join us as we redefine the defense procurement landscape, making cutting‑edge capabilities accessible at significantly lower costs.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and driven Senior Integrations Engineer to work on the development, integration and deployment of platform and avionics systems, within our next‑generation unmanned aerial systems (UAS). This role requires a strong background in avionics integration, systems engineering, and cross-domain troubleshooting—including embedded systems, networking, and RF communications. You will be responsible for ensuring seamless end‑to‑end integration of flight‑critical systems, collaborating closely with hardware, firmware, and software teams to ensure rigorous performance and reliability standards. The ideal candidates will possess advanced problem‑solving abilities, hands‑on experience with avionics architectures, and the capability to deliver resilient, mission‑ready solutions in a fast‑paced environment.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Design and maintain embedded and application‑level software; develop scripts and tools in Python, Bash, Shell, and C/C++ for automation, testing, and integration.
• Work on integration of avionics, mission payloads, flight controllers and embedded subsystems, ensuring reliability, safety, and performance standards are met.
• Configure, manage, and troubleshoot tactical and airborne networks, including radio frequency (RF) links and embedded communications.
• Quickly diagnose and resolve electromechanical, avionics, and embedded software issues in both lab and field settings.
• Use Model‑Based Systems Engineering tools (e.g., Cameo, MagicDraw) for system modeling, tracking requirements, and design validation.
• Create and execute test plans, validate performance, maintain traceability, and analyze results to drive improvements.
• Develop technical documentation—integration guides, test reports, troubleshooting manuals, and white papers.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in Systems or Avionics Engineering
• Experience working hands‑on with systems integration, troubleshooting, and field operations.
• Strong networking expertise, including configuration and troubleshooting of Ethernet, TCP/IP, VPN, VLANs, and wireless systems in tactical environments.
• Proficient in managing Linux (i.e., Ubuntu) and Windows systems, including command‑line operations and configuration.
• Solid programming and scripting skills in Python, Bash, Shell, C/C++, with experience in embedded software development and automation.
• Extensive troubleshooting experience across avionics, embedded systems, RF equipment, and integrated hardware/software stacks.
• Familiar with Software Defined Radios (SDR), including setup, integration, and performance tuning.
• Strong technical writing skills for documenting systems, procedures, and troubleshooting guides.
• The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance.
• U.S. Citizenship required (US Citizen, US permanent resident)

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with the integration, testing, and troubleshooting of Electronic Warfare (EW) systems in operational environments.
• Strong background in developing comprehensive test plans, managing requirements traceability, and executing formal verification and validation processes.
• Experience navigating and complying with Department of Defense (DoD) standards, acquisition requirements, and operational protocols.
• Familiarity with virtualization and containerization tools (VMware, Docker, Kubernetes, etc.).
• Understanding of cybersecurity principles and practices relevant to embedded systems and tactical networks.
• Familiarity with FAA regulatory frameworks, including airworthiness certification processes specific to unmanned aerial systems.

Other Requirements

• Willingness to travel up to 30% domestically and/or internationally
• Valid driver’s license & a clean motor vehicle record
• Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds
• Obtain and maintain any necessary technical certifications or safety training
• Physically capable of working in austere, field environments, and weather conditions.

What We Offer

Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast‑growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:

• 401(k)
• Life insurance
• Long term disability insurance
• Unlimited PTO
• Optional Benefits:
  Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
  FSA
  HSA (requires a high deductible health insurance plan)
  Hospital insurance
  Critical illness insurance
  Accident insurance

Compensation

US Salary Range: $140,000 – $176,000

The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.

ITAR Compliance

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. If you need assistance or require an accommodation during the job application process, please notify us.