What You’ll Do

• Support development of autonomy and mission-system software components
• Develop, implement, and optimize algorithms for real-time perception, localization, and path planning
• Implement vision-based target-tracking strategies
• Design and integrate interfaces for terminal guidance systems
• Build and execute simulation and hardware-in-the-loop testing workflows
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure successful deployment and integration of robotics solutions
• Develop data collection pipelines to aid our perception stack, monitoring system performance of onboard autonomy, and provide insights for continuous improvement
• Build and maintain autonomy simulation environments
• Research and prototype multi-aircraft control algorithms, focusing on communication and coordination across platforms
• Integrate sensors, compute hardware, and communication systems into development and test environments
• Collect, process, and analyze sensor and flight-test data to drive system improvements
• Create tools, automation, and test scripts to accelerate development and validation
• Participate actively in design reviews, providing and receiving constructive feedback to improve solutions
• Work hands-on with real-time embedded systems and autonomy stacks
• Debug and troubleshoot performance issues across software and hardware
• Support flight tests and field events, including test planning, execution, and data review

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Robotics, Computer Science, Engineering, or related field
• Minimum 4+ years of professional experience in a robotics engineering role
• Thorough knowledge of robotics fundamentals including perception, controls, or autonomy concepts
• Demonstrated hands-on experience in robotics, controls, or dynamics
• Proficiency in C++, Python, and Matlab/Octave
• Strong communication and documentation skills, capable of conveying complex technical details to diverse audiences
• Exposure to ROS/ROS2, simulation frameworks (e.g., Gazebo, Isaac, PX4), or real-time systems
• Ability to work hands-on with hardware, sensors, and embedded platforms
• Must be a U.S. Person (citizen or permanent resident) and able to work on-site in San Diego.
• Willingness to travel approximately 1 week per month to support flight testing and demonstrations (travel expenses covered)

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D in Robotics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
• Experience with flying platforms using PX4 or Arduplane codebases integrated with ROS
• Familiarity with Agile development processes
• High proficiency in C, C++, Python, and Matlab/Octave
• Experience flying RC fixed-wing aircraft
• Demonstrated experience developing multi-robot communication systems and control algorithms
• Experience with drones, autonomous vehicles, embedded systems, or aerospace platforms
• Hands-on lab, flight-test, or field robotics experience (RC aircraft, UAS, fixed-wing preferred)
• Exposure to Git-based workflows, CI/CD, and automated testing
• Adept in architecting and implementing modular decision trees and behavior nodes to support advanced autonomous behaviors in ariel vehicles

Work Environment

• Based at our Headquarters in San Diego, CA
• This role requires an on-site presence
• Must be able to lift up to 30 lbs. and wear appropriate PPE as required- Willingness to travel up to 10% domestically for testing and demonstrations
• Ability to work flexible hours and travel to various testing locations as needed

Compensation US Salary Range: $128,000 - $174,000 USD

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. Benefits & Perks 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:

• We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
• Equity grants for new hires
• Unlimited PTO
• Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November, & December.
• Generous Parental Leave
• Lifestyle Spending Account
• FSA
• DCFSA
• HSA
• Hospital Indemnity insurance
• Critical Illness insurance
• Accident insurance
• Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
• Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.

Export Control Compliance To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), 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 or U.S. Department of Commerce.

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. Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com so we can provide the support you need.

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