Senior Integrations Engineer

About the role

Firestorm Labs is seeking an experienced and driven Senior Integrations Engineer to support the integration of advanced payloads into our next-generation Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS).

Responsibilities

• Integrate avionics, mission payloads, flight controllers, and embedded subsystems while meeting reliability, safety, and performance standards.
• Configure, manage, and troubleshoot tactical and airborne networks, including RF links and embedded communications systems.
• Diagnose and resolve electromechanical, avionics, and embedded software issues in lab and field environments.
• Translate mission requirements into clear technical specifications.
• Develop and maintain embedded and application-level software. Write scripts and tools in Python, Bash, Shell, and C/C++ for automation, testing, and integration.
• Create and execute test plans, validate performance, analyze results, and provide technical recommendations.
• Partner with our Technical Writer(s) to develop documentation including integration guides, test reports, user manuals and troubleshooting materials.
• Collaborate across teams and use Firestorm’s additive manufacturing and simulation tools to accelerate development.
• Provide performance data and constructive feedback to hardware design and manufacturing teams.
• Perform repair and rework on Firestorm's product line, and third-party hardware systems, ensuring continued mission readiness.
• Support the preparation, configuration, and deployment of MECCS (Modular Electronic Command and Control Systems).
• Assemble and integrate custom or ad-hoc payloads, both hardware and software, based on mission & customer-specific needs.
• Stay informed about the latest technologies in avionics, embedded systems, tactical networking, and unmanned systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Electrical, Systems, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in systems integration, troubleshooting, and field operations.
• U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations & the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance.
• Strong networking knowledge, including configuration and troubleshooting of Ethernet, TCP/IP, VPNs, VLANs, and wireless systems.
• Proficient with Linux (Ubuntu, CentOS, RedHat) and Windows systems, with strong command-line skills.
• Programming and scripting experience in Python, Bash, Shell, and C/C++, including embedded software development.
• Skilled in troubleshooting across avionics systems, embedded software, RF equipment, and integrated hardware stacks.
• Familiarity with Software Defined Radios (SDRs), including configuration and performance tuning.
• Experience with virtualization and container tools such as VMware, Docker, and Kubernetes.
• Understanding of cybersecurity compliance requirements, and best practices, as they relate to embedded systems and tactical networks.
• Strong technical writing skills for documenting systems, procedures, and troubleshooting steps.

Preferred Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in systems integration, troubleshooting, and field operations.
• Experience in high-tech, aerospace or DoD-related manufacturing environments, including prior work in the military or with spacecraft, or aircraft.
• Experience delivering UAS systems to market in defense or commercial sectors.
• Hands-on integration and testing of Electronic Warfare (EW) systems in operational environments.
• Experience in test planning, requirements traceability, and formal verification and validation.
• Knowledge of military standards such as MIL-STD-810 for environmental compliance and MIL-STD-461 for EMI/EMC.
• Knowledge of PX4 Autopilot, including system setup, parameter tuning, and diagnostics.
• Familiarity with ROS or similar robotics middleware for autonomy and control systems.
• Deep knowledge of cybersecurity concerns related to unmanned systems, RF networks, and embedded avionics.
• Knowledge of FAA regulations and certification processes for unmanned aircraft systems.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to perform under pressure in fast-paced, mission-driven environments.