Unmanned Systems Software Engineer with Security Clearance

Seventh Dimension, LLC; Virginia Beach (VA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Seventh Dimension LLC is seeking an Unmanned Systems Software Engineer in Virginia Beach to develop, integrate, test, deploy, and sustain advanced software for unmanned systems used by SOCOM. You will work on mobile and fixed software, embedded systems, and autonomy tools in a fast-paced environment.

You should have strong C/C++ and Python skills, experience with MAVLink-based interfaces, and hands-on experience with QGroundControl, PX4/ArduPilot, and BetaFlight.

Qualifications

• US Citizenship is required.
• Active Secret Security Clearance with TS/SCI Eligibility is required.
• Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, or applicable engineering/science discipline, or qualifying equivalent experience.
• Minimum three (3) years of hands-on professional experience with a degree, or seven (7) years without a degree.
• Experience supporting Group 1/2 Unmanned Systems through software development, integration, testing, mission support, or related activities.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities; effective verbal and written communication.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deploy mobile and fixed software solutions for unmanned systems integration.
• Support embedded software solutions used on unmanned platforms and subsystems.
• Develop software supporting C2, ISR, and reconnaissance capabilities.
• Design, develop, test, document, and maintain software applications and utilities.
• Support autonomous navigation and mission planning capabilities.
• Develop and maintain communication interfaces using MAVLink and related protocols.
• Integrate OT onto unmanned systems and support mission planning software.
• Configure and support ground control software applications; implement sensor fusion.
• Develop automation tools, scripts, and data processing using Python.
• Troubleshoot and resolve software and network communication issues.
• Analyze and reverse engineer complex software to identify defects.
• Build, compile, test, and deploy software from source repositories.
• Collaborate with engineers, technicians, and end users on innovative solutions.

Skills

C/C++ programming

Python

MAVLink

QGroundControl

PX4/ArduPilot/BetaFlight

Qt/QML

Object-oriented design

Agile development

TCP/IP networking

Reverse engineering

Education

B.S. in Computer Engineering / Computer Science / Aerospace Engineering or equivalent

Tools

MAVLink

QGroundControl

PX4

ArduPilot

BetaFlight

Qt

QML

Job description

Position: Unmanned Systems Software Engineer Type: Full-time Location: Virginia Beach, VA Travel: 10% **Contingent Upon Award** Position Summary: The Unmanned Systems Software Engineer supports the development, integration, testing, deployment, and sustainment of advanced software solutions supporting unmanned systems and operational technologies for United States Special Operations Command. This position develops mobile and fixed software applications, supports embedded systems integration, and enables command and control, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance mission capabilities. The engineer will work in a fast-paced environment supporting autonomy solutions, mission planning applications, communications systems, and rapid capability development efforts. The position directly contributes to delivering operationally relevant technologies that enhance mission effectiveness and reduce risk to Special Operations Forces. Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and deploy mobile and fixed software solutions supporting unmanned systems integration
• Support embedded software solutions used on unmanned platforms and supporting subsystems
• Develop software supporting command and control, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities
• Design, develop, test, document, and maintain software applications and utilities
• Support autonomous navigation and mission planning capabilities
• Develop and maintain communication interfaces utilizing MAVLink and related protocols
• Support integration of operational technologies onto unmanned systems
• Configure and support mission planning and ground control software applications
• Implement and support sensor fusion solutions
• Develop automation tools, scripts, and data processing capabilities utilizing Python
• Troubleshoot and resolve software and network communication issues
• Analyze and reverse engineer software systems to identify and resolve defects
• Build, compile, test, and deploy software from source code repositories
• Collaborate with engineers, technicians, and end users to develop innovative technical solutions
• Support developmental testing, operational demonstrations, fielding events, and mission support activities
• Required Qualifications:
• US Citizen
• Valid U.S. driver's license
• Must hold an active Secret Security Clearance with TS/SCI Eligibility
• Demonstrate strong analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Demonstrate self-motivation and critical thinking skills.
• Clear and effective verbal and written communication
• Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, or applicable engineering or science discipline, or qualifying equivalent experience
• Minimum three (3) years of hands‑on professional experience with a degree, or seven (7) years of hands‑on professional experience without a degree
• Demonstrated experience supporting Group 1 and/or Group 2 Unmanned Systems through software development, integration, testing, mission support, or related activities
• Experience supporting Group 3 Unmanned Systems is desirable
• Experience with commercially available unmanned systems preferred
• Proficiency in C and C++ programming
• Experience utilizing object‑oriented software development methodologies
• Demonstrated ability to deliver production software in an Agile development environment
• Extensive knowledge of autonomous navigation and path‑planning techniques, including waypoint navigation, geofencing, dynamic routing, obstacle avoidance, and collision detection
• Extensive experience utilizing BetaFlight, ArduPilot, and PX4
• Experience with sensor fusion techniques utilizing technologies such as Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs), Global Positioning System (GPS), cameras, and Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) sensors
• Experience working with QGroundControl or comparable ground control software
• Experience utilizing the Qt and Qt Modeling Language (QML) framework
• Familiarity with the MAVLink communication protocol
• Proficiency in Python for scripting, automation, data analysis, and prototyping
• Strong understanding of Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) networking concepts
• Experience troubleshooting network communications issues
• Ability to analyze and reverse engineer complex software codebases
• Experience using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software
• Demonstrated ability to build target software from source code
• Adhere to USSOCOM security requirements, cybersecurity requirements, and non-disclosure obligations.
• Obtain and maintain installation access credentials and Department of Defense Common Access Card credentials, as required.
• Sign required Non-Disclosure Agreements prior to performance.
• Be capable of supporting surge operations, contingency activities, and mission-essential requirements when directed. Physical Ability to:
• Ability to work in a laboratory, fabrication, and engineering shop environment.
• Ability to work around loud industrial equipment and power tools.
• Ability to safely operate fabrication equipment and engineering support tools.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to support testing events and field activities as required. Physical Demands and Work Environment: While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to talk, listen, and write. The employee frequently is required to use foot/ankle motions, hands or fingers, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls. The employee is required to stand, walk, sit; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to be the best qualified for the position and successfully perform the functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made (if possible) to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions. Company Background: Seventh Dimension LLC provides focused customer support in two core competencies Training & Support Services. Since 2015, we have provided customers with flexible, adaptable, and creative approaches to solving complex problems. We are a proven prime contractor that understands future operating environments, fiscal constraints, and current force requirements. We are a SDVOSB in North Carolina with a TS Facility Clearance, Secret storage and a DCAA compliant accounting system. Disclaimer: This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job‑related instructions and to perform any other job‑related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship. Seventh Dimension, LLC is a Veteran friendly employer and provides equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability status, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, and local laws.