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Forward Deployed Engineer

Remote

Swarm Aero is redefining air power, building the largest swarming UAV and most versatile swarming aircraft network in the world. The company is moving quickly to launch the first aircraft designed specifically for swarming as well as the Command & Control software to mobilize swarms of thousands of heterogeneous autonomous assets and empower human operators to achieve superhuman results. 

The team has created and exited multiple startups, negotiated defense deals worth billions of dollars and designed and built 30+ novel aircraft, with aerospace experience from Scaled Composites, Airbus, Archer Aviation, Blue Origin, and Boom Supersonic. 

We are seeking a Forward Deployed Engineer with a robust technical background in software engineering or related fields to lead the integration and deployment of the Command and Control (C2) and collaborative autonomy systems developed by Swarm Aero. 

What you'll do: 

  • Rapidly integrating and deploying proprietary software with real-world hardware and software systems across various global locations as required by our defense clients. 
  • Developing and executing comprehensive test plans to evaluate new software capabilities and gather critical mission feedback. 
  • Troubleshooting complex integrated systems involving multiple third-party components, identifying and resolving failures to ensure mission success. 
  • Acquiring a Part 107 license and learning to pilot individual drones, as well as operating drone swarms during test events. 

Basic qualifications: 

  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or other related disciplines
  • Proficiency in at least one major programming language (such as Python, C/C++, Golang, Java). 
  • Solid understanding of networking, including NAT, mDNS, network protocols (UDP/TCP), multicast, and firewall configuration. 
  • Experience with system administration skills in Linux environments. 
  • Strong ability to engage in productive discussions with customers, comprehend their domain-specific problems, and drive towards effective solutions. 
  • Strong debugging skills and keen attention to detail required. 
  • Ability to travel in upwards of 75% 

Preferred qualifications: 

  • Broad knowledge of embedded systems (SPI/I2C/serial communication, basic use of digital logic analyzers and oscilloscopes, fundamental microcontroller programming). 
  • Extensive experience in electronics prototyping (soldering, breadboarding, interpreting schematics and datasheets). 

Compensation Range:

  • $145,000 - $183,000 + Equity 

What we Offer

  • Meaningful equity stake in a high-growth defense technology company
  • Competitive base salary commensurate with experience
  • Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and 401k
  • PTO and Paid Sick Time
  • Monthly Wellness Stipend
  • Daily catered lunch to office
  • Paid Parental leave
  • Flexible work arrangement - remote/hybrid with regular collaboration in Oxnard
  • Direct impact opportunity - be a key leader in building a critical technology for national security
  • World-class team - work alongside exceptional engineers and operators solving hard problems

As part of our commitment to maintaining a safe and trustworthy work environment, Swarm Aero conducts a thorough screening of prospective employees. Candidates will be subject to a comprehensive background verification process as a prerequisite for employment. 

To conform to U.S. Government controlled technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

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