Autonomy Engineer - UAVs

Collaborative autonomy is how self-tasking teams of machines will solve hard human problems, and HavocAI is an unquestioned leader in collaborative autonomy. We set the standard for autonomous surface vessels for a wide range of defense and commercial maritime missions. Success requires us to grow quickly, and we’re looking for teammates who are passionate about solving hard problems, about pushing the envelope, and about preventing conflict and saving lives. Ambition is welcome to apply within.

We are seeking a UAV / GNC Autonomy Engineer with deep experience in unmanned aircraft systems, autopilot integration, and guidance-navigation-control (GNC) algorithm development. In this role, you will design, implement, and integrate autonomy behaviors onto UAV platforms, working closely with test teams, autonomy engineers, perception developers, and systems integrators. You will help shape HavocAI’s airborne autonomy architecture, connecting high-level mission logic with reliable low-level flight control.

• Design and implement GNC algorithms for quadrotor, fixed-wing, and VTOL UAV platforms.

• Integrate HavocAI’s autonomy stack with flight controllers such as PX4, ArduPilot, and other autopilots.

• Develop mission-level behaviors and flight logic linking autonomy decision-making to aircraft motion and control.

• Build software interfaces between aircraft sensors, navigation systems, and the autonomy framework.

• Conduct flight dynamics modeling, simulation, and performance analysis for UAV platforms.

• Support flight tests, tuning, and field operations, including debugging during live missions.

• Collaborate with hardware, avionics, and systems engineering teams on requirements and integration strategies.

• Develop documentation for configurations, tuning procedures, and flight-ready autonomy modules.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Robotics, Controls, or a related field.

• Strong background in GNC, flight control, or UAV systems.

• Hands-on experience with PX4, ArduPilot, or similar autopilot frameworks.

• Proficiency in C++ and ROS or ROS2 environments.

• Familiarity with EKF-based state estimation, sensor fusion, and navigation algorithms.

• Strong debugging skills in flight-test or autonomous robotics environments.

• Must be a U.S. Citizen and eligible to obtain a Secret Clearance.

• Experience designing aircraft dynamics models.

• Knowledge of GNSS, IMU, air data sensors, and low-latency sensor integration.

• Familiarity with UAV communications (MAVLink, DDS, CANbus-based avionics).

• Experience with multi-vehicle autonomy, formation flight, or swarm behaviors.

• Background integrating autonomy from simulation to flight hardware.

• Prior experience in defense or commercial UAV programs.

• 100% Employer paid Health, Dental and Vision Insurance for you and your families

• Life Insurance

• Ability to participate in the companies 401k program

• Unlimited PTO policy with an enforced 2 week minimum

• Equity Package

• Work / Home Office Stipend

• Global Entry

• 16 Week Paid Parental Leave

• Monthly Health and Wellness Stipend

• Innovation: We are driven to break new ground. Every day presents an opportunity to challenge the status quo, think boldly, and deliver advanced solutions that transform the future of defense technology.

• Integrity: We hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards, ensuring transparency, accountability, and trust in all our actions and partnerships.

• Mission-Driven: We are focused on achieving impactful outcomes that align with our core mission—protecting lives through innovation.

• Forward-Leaning: We continuously seek out new opportunities and remain at the forefront of technological advancements. We embrace change and anticipate the challenges of tomorrow with confidence and creativity.

• Ownership of All Tasks: At HavocAI, no problem is too complex or too trivial. We believe that greatness comes from tackling the hardest challenges, but also in handling the smallest, sometimes thankless, tasks with the same level of commitment and care.

• Servant Leadership: We lead by serving others, whether it’s supporting our employees, partners, or the broader community. Empowering those around us is key to achieving long-term success and making a lasting impact.

HavocAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.