Principal Software Engineer (Autonomy)

Founded in 2004, Thompson Software Solutions (TSS) is a mission-driven aerospace and defense software and systems engineering company supporting the U.S. military, defense primes, and commercial space partners. We specialize in the development, integration, test, and deployment of safety & mission-critical software systems that power next-generation aircraft, defense platforms, and space technologies. Our team understands what it takes to modernize complex embedded systems while maintaining the rigor, compliance, and reliability required for mission and safety-critical environments.

About the role

Thompson Software Solutions is seeking a senior-level Embedded Software Engineer to work with a talented team providing innovative solutions for tomorrow’s problems. This position requires a software engineer to use a wide application of technical principles, theories, and concepts in the software field to develop, integrate, and test software products. The successful candidate will be a member of a high-performing multi-site team and must be self-motivated with strong work ethic, time-management, and interpersonal skills. In this role, you will work independently at times on projects, and at other times in a collaborative team environment with other software engineers, as well as other program development and deployment teams.

Selected applicants will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Continued eligibility for access to classified information is required throughout employment, as dictated by program needs.

Responsibilities

• Develop, integrate, and test software products for embedded systems, automation, testing, and application development.
• Configure autonomous flight systems using ArduPilot and/or PX4 flight controllers.
• Work with UAS/UAV or RC aircraft operations, integration, and troubleshooting.
• Use Git for source control, branching strategies, code reviews, and collaborative software development.
• Design and implement solutions involving robotics, autonomous systems, flight software, sensor integration, and embedded system design.
• Communicate project status and collaborate on technical solutions with clients and peers.
• Travel up to 25%.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in computer engineering, Computer Science, or related technical discipline.
• 8+ years of strong software development experience using C, C++, Java, Python, and Bash.
• Experience with Linux and Windows development environments.
• Ability to obtain a Secret DoD security clearance.

Skills

• Proficient with Atlassian Tools (Confluence, JIRA, Bitbucket, etc.).
• Familiarity with the MAVLink communication protocol, including telemetry, command-and-control messaging, mission planning, and integration with ground control stations.
• DevOps & Containerization – Experience with Docker-based development, deployment, and maintaining CI/CD pipelines.
• Embedded Systems – Developing software for microcontrollers and embedded hardware platforms.
• Autonomy Systems – Working with autonomous systems software and hardware, including:
  • Perception (sensors, computer vision, sensor fusion)
  • Motion and mission planning
  • Control systems
• Test & Verification Engineering – Creating automated tests, validation frameworks, and verification software.
• Software Quality & CI/CD – Designing and maintaining robust software quality processes, automated builds, testing, and deployment pipelines.
• Electrical Engineering Fundamentals – Ability to read and understand electrical schematics and collaborate with hardware teams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to document complex technical designs and work in a collaborative, team-based environment.
• Active DoD Secret Security Clearance (preferred).

Benefits

• Low-cost Medical / Dental / Vision coverage options
• 401K with generous employer match
• Responsible Paid Time Off + Paid Holidays
• Remote work opportunities based on role
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Career growth and professional development opportunities

Pay

$160,000 - $200,000 + Bonus Eligible