Software Engineer II /Embedded Systems & Software

Position Overview

We are seeking a hands-on, mid-level Software Engineer to develop, integrate, and maintain

software for unmanned surface vessels (USVs) and autonomous maritime systems.

This role emphasizes rapid software development, embedded systems integration, and practical

engineering solutions. The ideal candidate is comfortable working in an evolving development

environment, delivering reliable features quickly, and introducing lightweight tools and

workflows that improve team productivity without unnecessary overhead.

The engineer will work closely with software, mechanical, electrical, and networking teams to

develop and support onboard computing, communication systems, video services, vehicle

telemetry, and third-party integrations.

Required Qualifications

• Python and C++: Strong Python development skills and working proficiency in C++

• Linux: Experience developing, deploying, and troubleshooting software on Linux-based

systems

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

including branching and code reviews

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

• AI-Assisted Development: Experience using generative AI coding tools such as Cursor,

OpenAI Codex, or similar

• Networking: Understanding of TCP/IP, UDP, Ethernet, network routing, and

connectivity troubleshooting

• Software Integration: Experience integrating software with hardware, sensors, APIs,

and communication protocols

• Testing and Debugging: Experience developing automated tests and troubleshooting

complex software issues

• Software Development: Ability to independently develop, test, and deliver reliable

software features

• Embedded Systems: Familiarity with embedded computing platforms and

hardware/software interfaces

Preferred Qualifications

• ArduPilot, ArduRover, and MAVLink

• ATAK/WinTAK integration and plugin development

• NVIDIA Jetson or other embedded Linux platforms

• Docker and containerized applications

• GitLab CI/CD, automated builds, and deployment scripting

• CAN bus, UART, serial communications, and hardware interfaces

• Video streaming technologies such as RTSP, WebRTC, FFmpeg, GStreamer, and

MediaMTX

• GNSS, radar, cameras, and marine electronics

• Satellite, cellular, and other variable-bandwidth communication systems

• Experience with autonomous vehicles, robotics, maritime systems, or defense technology

• PostgreSQL or other database technologies

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, test, and maintain Python and C++ applications for unmanned maritime

platforms

• Integrate third-party sensors, cameras, radar, communication systems, and software

• Develop and support vehicle telemetry, remote monitoring, video streaming, and system

health applications

• Troubleshoot complex software, networking, operating system, and hardware integration

issues

• Develop lightweight automated tests, build scripts, and deployment tools

• Improve GitLab development workflows and software release practices where they

provide practical value

• Create repeatable procedures for building, packaging, and deploying onboard and

operator-facing software

• Support development and integration of MAVLink, ArduPilot, and TAK-based systems

as needed

• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, networking, autonomy, and software engineering

teams

• Support laboratory, dockside, and on-water integration and testing

• Maintain clear technical documentation, version control, and development tasks

• Use AI-assisted development tools to accelerate development, debugging, and testing

while maintaining software quality

Ideal Candidate

• Enjoys hands-on software development and practical engineering challenges

• Can move quickly from requirements to working software

• Comfortable developing solutions in a fast-paced, evolving environment

• Understands how to balance rapid prototyping with long-term reliability and

maintainability

• Proactively identifies repetitive tasks and introduces simple automation

• Knows when a lightweight script or workflow is more appropriate than a complex

infrastructure solution

• Can independently troubleshoot issues across applications, Linux, networking, and

embedded hardware

• Works effectively with multidisciplinary engineering teams

Additional Requirements

• Willingness to work hands-on with embedded hardware and autonomous vehicle systems

• Ability to independently manage assigned development tasks and priorities

• Willingness to participate in field testing and occasional travel

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to document technical work and collaborate effectively with other engineers

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.