Software Engineer

Poseidon Aero; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A cutting-edge aviation technology company in San Francisco is seeking a passionate Software Engineer to develop autonomous flight software for their aircraft. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with autonomous aircraft, proficiency in programming languages such as C++ or Python, and solid skills in developing flight control algorithms. You will collaborate in a dynamic environment to innovate autonomous flight technology.

Benefits

Encouragement for diverse perspectives

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience developing flight control algorithms for autonomous aircraft.
• Experience in programming for real-time embedded systems.
• Knowledge of safety-critical software development in aviation.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop autonomous flight software, including GNC algorithms.
• Implement real-time decision-making for autonomous operations.
• Collaborate with engineers for robust software integration.

Skills

Hands-on experience with autonomous aircraft

Proficiency in C++, Python, or Rust

Familiarity with ROS or similar frameworks

Experience with flight simulation

Strong problem-solving skills

Tools

Middleware like ROS

Computer vision frameworks

Job description

As a Software Engineer at Poseidon Aerospace, you will develop and maintain autonomous flight software for our aircraft. You will work on systems that enable safe, reliable, and efficient autonomous flight, including navigation, control algorithms, and real-time decision‑making. We’re looking for someone with hands‑on experience working on autonomous aircraft, who thrives in dynamic environments, and is passionate about pushing the boundaries of aviation technology.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize autonomous flight software, including guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) algorithms specifically for autonomous aircraft.
• Implement real‑time decision‑making systems for autonomous operations, managing dynamic flight conditions and environmental factors.
• Integrate software with onboard sensors, actuators, and avionics, enabling autonomous mission execution and real‑time adaptation.
• Develop software for flight planning, collision avoidance, precision landing, and mission management.
• Test and validate software using simulation environments, hardware‑in‑the‑loop (HITL) setups, and real‑world flight testing.
• Conduct rigorous code reviews and implement best practices to ensure software reliability and performance in autonomous aircraft systems.
• Collaborate with aerospace engineers, avionics engineers, and field testing teams to ensure robust software integration and reliable flight operation.
• Troubleshoot, debug, and optimize flight software both in simulation and during field tests.

Ideal Qualifications

• Hands‑on experience working on autonomous aircraft, including developing and implementing flight control algorithms.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as C++, Python, or Rust for real‑time embedded systems.
• Experience with middleware like ROS (Robot Operating System) or similar frameworks for autonomous systems.
• Proven track record of developing and deploying GNC algorithms on autonomous aircraft platforms.
• Experience with flight simulation environments, HITL testing, and real‑world autonomous flight testing.
• Experience with computer vision frameworks and integration into flight environments.
• Knowledge of sensor fusion, path planning, obstacle avoidance, and adaptive control techniques.
• Experience with safety‑critical software development, validation, and compliance in aviation.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and the ability to innovate when faced with real‑world autonomous flight challenges.

Even if you don't meet every qualification listed, we encourage you to apply. At Poseidon Aerospace, we value diverse perspectives and are always looking for talented individuals with unconventional backgrounds.

Location: San Francisco, CA