Autonomy Engineer - Fixed Wing Planning & Controls

About the role

Skydio is the leading US drone company and the world leader in autonomous flight, the key technology for the future of drones and aerial mobility. The Skydio team combines deep expertise in artificial intelligence, best-in-class hardware and software product development, operational excellence, and customer obsession to empower a broader, more diverse audience of drone users, from utility inspectors to first responders, soldiers in battlefield scenarios and beyond.

Responsibilities

• Architect, implement, simulate, and flight test new motion planning strategies
• Develop, tune, and analyze new flight controllers
• Refine and understand the aerodynamic and dynamic model of a tailsitter aircraft using simulated and flight test data
• Inform aspects of hardware design such as sensor requirements and aerodynamic control authority through simulation and analysis
• Get out of your comfort zone and help across the stack where needed

Requirements

• Strong proficiency in C++ and Python in real-time contexts
• Experience shipping software that controls real hardware, e.g. aircraft, drones, robots, etc.
• Knowledge of aircraft and rotorcraft dynamics
• Experience with non-linear optimization
• Modern and classical control theory and practice
• Strong software engineering fundamentals and a commitment to writing clean, well-designed, maintainable, readable code
• Experience collaborating in a larger code base

Qualifications

• BS/MS in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, or related field
• Experience with unmanned aerial systems (UAS)
• Experience with real-time control systems
• Experience with flight dynamics modeling and simulation
• Experience with aerodynamics and control authority analysis

Skills

• Proficiency in C++ and Python
• Experience with real-time systems
• Understanding of aircraft and rotorcraft dynamics
• Experience with non-linear optimization
• Knowledge of modern and classical control theory
• Strong software engineering skills
• Experience working in a collaborative environment

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, paid vacation, sick leave, holiday pay, and 401K savings plan
• Equity in the form of stock options
• Relocation assistance for eligible roles

Pay

The annual base salary range for this position is $170,000 - 240,000*

Schedule

Full-time

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are committed to growing our network of people, programs, and resources to nurture an inclusive culture. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by federal, state or local anti-discrimination laws.

Contact Information

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