General Summary:

• Support integration of navigation, autonomy, communications, and payload control software.
• Configure, extend, and optimize UAS autopilot software such as ArduPilot or PX4.
• Develop and maintain software for onboard compute platforms such as NVIDIA Jetson or similar.
• Perform software debugging and troubleshooting across embedded, onboard, and ground systems.
• Support software-in-the-loop, hardware-in-the-loop, and flight testing activities.
• Develop scripts and tools to support automation, testing, and data analysis.
• Use Git or similar version control systems for collaborative development.
• Work closely with hardware, systems, and flight operations teams to define requirements and validate performance.
• Design, develop, integrate, and maintain software for unmanned aircraft systems, including flight software, onboard computing, and ground control interfaces.
• Prepare and maintain technical documentation, including software designs, configurations, and test results.

_At COLSA, people are our most valuable resource and centered at our core value. We invite you to unite your talents with opportunity and be a part of our “Family of Professionals!” Learn about our employee-centric culture and benefitshere. _

Required Skills

Required Experience

• Bachelors’ degree in computer science, information systems, engineering, business or other related field or equivalent
• Minimum of 5-8 years related experience
• Working knowledge of desktop applications such as word processing, spreadsheet, and database programs
• Working knowledge of current operating systems and programming language
• Proficiency in C/C++ and/or Python for embedded systems, autonomy, scripting, and testing.
• Experience working in Linux-based development environments, including build systems, debugging, and deployment.
• Ability to explain technical concepts clearly and collaborate effectively in cross-functional teams.
• Experience developing software for embedded systems, robotics, or autonomous platforms.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance within 6 months of hire; U.S. Citizenship required.
• Willingness to support field testing, demonstrations, and limited travel as required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience developing or modifying ArduPilot or PX4 modules.
• Familiarity with ROS or ROS 2.
• Experience with NVIDIA Jetson platforms and GPU acceleration technologies.
• Background in computer vision, EO/IR processing, or AI/ML integration.
• Familiarity with MAVLink, DDS, or similar messaging frameworks.
• Experience with autonomy, navigation, and sensor fusion algorithms.
• Experience supporting flight testing, demonstrations, or field deployments.
• Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines and automated testing frameworks.
• Exposure to DoD, law enforcement, or public safety UAS programs.
• FAA Part 107 certification or familiarity with UAS flight operations.

Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. COLSA Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disabled. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.