Software Engineer – Autonomy
The Software Engineer – Autonomy at Confidential Client develops advanced autonomy software focused on coordinated multi-aircraft wildfire suppression. The role involves building mission and path planning algorithms, implementing collaborative autonomy with human supervision, and validating software through simulation and flight testing. This position requires strong expertise in robotics and autonomous systems, with a focus on real-time C++ development and simulation tools, and mandates on-site work in Alameda, CA under U.S. export control regulations.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Autonomous Systems & AI (Confidential Client).
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Role Overview
Confidential Client is hiring an entry-level Software Engineer focused on Autonomy to join their autonomous systems and AI engineering team. This role is ideal for engineers who want hands-on experience building perception, planning, and control software for real-world autonomy projects. You will work on design, implementation, testing, and deployment of autonomy software in close collaboration with senior engineers and cross-functional teams.
What You’ll Do
- Contribute to development and maintenance of autonomy software components (perception, planning, control, simulation).
- Implement, test, and debug algorithms in a production codebase.
- Integrate and validate software modules in simulation and on hardware platforms.
- Collaborate with systems, sensors, and QA teams to ensure robust behavior across scenarios.
- Write clear, maintainable code and documentation; participate in code reviews.
- Help build automated tests and CI workflows for autonomy stacks.
What We’re Looking For
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, or related field — or equivalent practical experience.
- Experience with one or more programming languages commonly used in autonomy (C++, Python, or similar).
- Familiarity with algorithm development, data structures, and software engineering best practices.
- Strong problem-solving skills and a desire to learn applied autonomy techniques.
- Good communication skills and ability to work in a collaborative engineering environment.
Nice-to-Have
- Experience with robotics middleware or frameworks (e.g., ROS).
- Background in sensor processing, computer vision, SLAM, or motion planning.
- Exposure to simulation tools and automated testing frameworks.
- Experience with Linux-based development and version control (Git).
Why Join
- Work at the intersection of AI and real-world autonomous systems.
- Grow quickly with mentorship from experienced autonomy engineers.
- Opportunity to contribute to production systems that operate in real environments.
- Collaborative, inclusive engineering culture focused on learning and impact.
Location & Logistics
This role is based in California (work location listed at the state level). Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States. Employment details (remote options, exact office city, compensation, and benefits) will be shared by the Confidential Client during the hiring process.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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