Firestorm is seeking a Principal Automation Engineer to own the software that takes UAS platforms from first power-on to mission-ready flight. This role is responsible for delivering integrated, reliable systems across autonomy, vehicle control, and verification, with direct impact on platforms that are designed, built, and flown on rapid timelines.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related field; may substitute equivalent hands-on experience in lieu of a degree
- 15+ years of experience in UAS, robotics, autonomous systems, or software engineering
- U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations & the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance
- Hands-on experience with autopilot systems such as PX4, ArduPilot or similar platforms, and MAVLink-based communication
- Strong proficiency in Python and C or C++ for flight software and test frameworks
- Demonstrated experience designing and operating SIL and HIL systems
- Experience operating at a staff or principal level with ownership of crossfunctional, team, technical direction
- Effectively communicates complex technical concepts clearly to both engineering and program stakeholders
- Aligns crossfunctional teams including hardware, systems, and manufacturing without respectful authority
- Comfortable working collaboratively across engineering, operations, and customer-facing teams
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint) for data tracking, reporting, and communication
Benefits
- 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.