Software Engineer I/II - ArduPilot & Autonomous Systems

Position Overview

We are seeking a junior-to-mid-level Software Engineer with hands-on ArduPilot development experience to develop, integrate, and test autonomous vehicle control software for unmanned surface vessels (USVs). The ideal candidate has experience modifying ArduPilot source code, working with MAVLink communication protocols, and developing automated simulation and hardware testing environments. This role focuses on implementing vehicle-control functionality, improving autonomy software reliability, and integrating ArduPilot/ArduRover with onboard hardware and external command-and-control systems. Experience with ATAK/WinTAK and tactical command-and-control software is highly desirable.

Required Qualifications

• C++ and Python: Experience developing, debugging, and maintaining software in C++

and Python

• ArduPilot Development: Demonstrated hands-on experience modifying, building,

debugging, and testing ArduPilot source code

• ArduRover / USV: Experience with ArduRover for boats/USVs or equivalent ArduPilot

vehicle platforms

• SITL/HITL: Hands-on experience configuring, running, and troubleshooting ArduPilot

Software-in-the-Loop (SITL) and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL/HIL) testing

environments

• Automated Testing: Experience developing automated simulation tests, regression tests,

and validation workflows for autonomous vehicle software

• MAVLink: Understanding of telemetry, vehicle commands, parameters, mission

execution, and communication protocols

• Vehicle Control: Understanding of actuators, navigation, operating modes, and

safety/failsafe behavior

• Linux: Experience developing and troubleshooting software on Linux-based systems

• Version Control: Experience using Git, GitLab, or equivalent source-control platforms

• Project Management: Familiarity with Jira or similar issue-tracking systems

• AI-Assisted Development: Familiarity with generative AI coding tools such as Cursor,

OpenAI Codex, or similar

• Hardware Integration: Experience integrating software with sensors, embedded

hardware, or external control systems

Preferred Qualifications

• ATAK/WinTAK plugin development and integration

• TAK ecosystem experience, including Cursor on Target (CoT)

• Autonomous boat/USV development and on-water testing experience

• Marine propulsion, throttle, gear shifting, steering, and actuator control

• CAN bus, serial communications, and marine engine integration

• GNSS, IMUs, compass/heading sensors, and navigation systems

• NVIDIA Jetson and other embedded computing platforms

• TCP/IP, UDP, and remote vehicle communication systems

• Docker, GitLab CI/CD, and automated deployment workflows

• Experience with robotics, autonomous vehicles, or defense systems

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, modify, and maintain ArduPilot/ArduRover C++ source code for unmanned

surface vessels

• Implement vessel-specific control functionality, including throttle, steering, gear shifting,

and engine control

• Develop and maintain ArduPilot SITL/HITL simulation and testing environments

• Create automated simulation and regression tests to validate vehicle behavior and

software changes

• Develop and test vehicle safety interlocks, operating modes, and failsafe functionality

• Integrate MAVLink telemetry, vehicle commands, parameters, and autonomous mission

execution

• Support ArduPilot integration with ATAK/WinTAK and third-party

command-and-control systems

• Integrate navigation sensors, propulsion interfaces, and other onboard vehicle hardware

• Troubleshoot autonomous control issues during development, simulation, hardware

testing, and on-water operations

• Collaborate with software, electrical, mechanical, and networking engineers

• Participate in code reviews, software testing, and release processes

• Maintain source code, technical documentation, and development tasks using GitLab and

Jira

• Use AI-assisted coding tools to improve development efficiency while validating

generated code through appropriate testing

Ideal Candidate

• Has demonstrated experience working directly with ArduPilot source code rather than

only configuring or operating ArduPilot systems

• Enjoys developing and troubleshooting autonomous vehicle software

• Comfortable working with simulation environments and physical vehicle hardware

• Understands the importance of testing vehicle-control functionality before field

deployment

• Capable of independently implementing assigned software features with appropriate

technical guidance and code review

• Interested in autonomous maritime systems, robotics, and real-world engineering

challenges

• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with evolving requirements

Additional Requirements

• Ability to work hands-on with embedded hardware, sensors, and vehicle-control systems

• Willingness to participate in laboratory, dockside, and on-water testing

• Willingness to travel occasionally for field testing and integration activities

• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills

• Effective communication, teamwork, and technical documentation skills

Physical Requirements and Working Environment

This role combines office and laboratory work with hands-on vessel integration and outdoor testing.

• Ability to manually lift and carry equipment and materials weighing up to 50 pounds.

• Ability to crawl, kneel, crouch, bend, climb, and work in confined or awkward spaces while installing, inspecting, and servicing equipment on and around vessels.

• Ability to safely board and move around boats, docks, and uneven or wet surfaces.

• Comfortable working outdoors and in marine environments, including dockside activities and on-water testing.

• Occasional travel and schedule flexibility may be required to support trials and demonstrations.

Background Check

This position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check. Qualified candidates with a criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal and state law.

EEO and ITAR/EAR Work Authorization Disclosure

Red Cat Holdings provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This position requires direct or indirect access to hardware, software, technology or technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Successful candidates for positions subject to ITAR/EAR restrictions must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residence and must not require sponsorship for export-restricted work authorization.

E-Verify

The company participates E-Verify ensure eligibility for employment and compliance with Right to Work rules.

Compensation: Base pay, plus generous annual equity package and potential bonuses.