Wireless Software Engineer

Skydio; San Mateo (CA); On-site; USD 147,500 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity in the form of stock options

Comprehensive benefits packages

Paid vacation time

401K savings plan

Job summary

A leading drone technology company in California is seeking a Wireless Software Engineer to push the boundaries of wireless capabilities for autonomous drones. You will work on innovative communication protocols and design reliable systems for long-range connectivity in challenging environments. The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of wireless protocols, firmware development skills, and experience with C++, C, and Python. This role offers competitive compensation including stock options and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of WLAN and/or cellular protocols.
• Proficient in firmware development and wireless communication systems.
• Well-versed in C++, C and Python.

Responsibilities

• Push boundaries of wireless capabilities – longer range, faster connectivity.
• Work on innovative communication protocol for drone communication.
• Design and implement reliable and efficient drone communication.

Skills

WLAN protocols

Cellular protocols

OFDMA networking

C++

C

Python

Firmware development

Software engineering

Job description

Skydio is the leading US drone company and the world leader in autonomous flight, the key technology for the future of drones and aerial mobility. The Skydio team combines deep expertise in artificial intelligence, best-in-class hardware and software product development, operational excellence, and customer obsession to empower a broader, more diverse audience of drone users, from utility inspectors to first responders, soldiers in battlefield scenarios and beyond.

About the role:

Skydio is the world leader in autonomous flight, combining best-in-class AI, hardware, and cloud connectivity to make drones indispensable infrastructure across public safety, defense, and enterprise. Delivering this vision at scale requires rethinking wireless from the ground up. We’re looking for a Wireless Software Engineer to join our team and help reimagine how WiFi and cellular links can be customized for autonomous drones operating in challenging, interference heavy, long-range environments. You’ll work hands‑on with chipsets, dig into low‑level firmware, and write software to extend range, boost reliability, and deliver steady, high‑quality video streams in places standard WiFi was never meant to go. If you know wireless protocols, and love bending them, this is your chance to redefine what’s possible in autonomous systems.

How you'll make an impact:

• You will play a key role in pushing the boundaries of Skydio’s wireless capabilities – delivering longer range, faster connectivity, and secure data transmission.
• You will work on a new and innovative communication protocol to facilitate best‑in‑class mesh drone communication
• You will design and implement innovative solutions to facilitate reliable and efficient drone communication in an OFDMA‑based mesh network.
• You will design, develop, and optimize wireless software and firmware across WLAN, LTE, and 5G to enhance connectivity, range, and robustness.
• You will implement and validate system‑level algorithms in software to meet performance KPIs under congested and dynamic network conditions.

What makes you a good fit:

• Strong understanding of WLAN and/or cellular protocols, including OFDMA, mesh networking, and scheduled network operations.
• Proficient in firmware development with a solid foundation in wireless communication systems.
• Well‑versed in C++, C and Python
• Strong software engineering skills, including design, implementation, and performance tuning of wireless features.
• Skilled in diagnosing and resolving complex issues spanning multiple layers, including hardware.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively with cross‑functional teams including RF, Hardware, and Systems.

Compensation:

At Skydio, our compensation packages for regular, full‑time employees include competitive base salaries, equity in the form of stock options, and comprehensive benefits packages. Compensation will vary based on factors, including skill level, proficiencies, transferable knowledge, and experience. Relocation assistance may also be provided for eligible roles. The annual base salary range for this position is $147,500 - $210,000. Fundamentally, we believe that equity is the key to long‑term financial growth, and we ensure all regular, full‑time employees have the opportunity to significantly benefit from the company’s success. Regular, full‑time employees are eligible to enroll in the Company’s group health insurance plans. Regular, full‑time employees are eligible to receive the following benefits: Paid vacation time, sick leave, holiday pay and 401K savings plan. This position and all associated benefits are subject to applicable federal, state, and local laws, as well as the Company’s policies and eligibility criteria.

*Compensation for certain positions may vary based on the position’s location.

At Skydio we believe that diversity drives innovation. We have created a multidisciplinary environment that embraces the power of diverse perspectives to create elegant solutions for complex problems. We are committed to growing our network of people, programs, and resources to nurture an inclusive culture.

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 other characteristics protected by federal, state or local anti‑discrimination laws.

For positions located in the United States of America, Skydio, Inc. uses E‑Verify to confirm employment eligibility. To learn more about E‑Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit https://www.e-verify.gov/