Software Engineer IV (UAV Embedded)

About the Company

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. is a leading defense technology company focused on unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. Kratos prioritizes affordability as a cornerstone of our technology, leveraging proven, cutting-edge methodologies to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks.

Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems (KUAS), a division of Kratos Defense, specializes in developing, delivering, integrating, and supporting high-performance, cost-effective, jet-powered Unmanned Aerial Systems (Targets and Tactical). As a mid-tier defense contractor, KUAS has demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the US military and global allies. Our team fosters a supportive and dynamic workplace, prioritizing innovation, collaboration, and growth while honoring personal and family lives.

About the Role

As an Embedded Software Engineer, you will architect and implement mission-critical software for next-generation UAV flight computers. You will bridge complex flight algorithms and custom avionics hardware, developing high-performance C++ applications that ensure deterministic control and absolute system reliability. Working at the intersection of hardware and software, you will collaborate with electrical and GNC (Guidance, Navigation, and Control) engineers to design and implement complex physical-digital interactions using MATLAB/Simulink.

Responsibilities

• Designs, develops, and tests C++ flight software and hardware, sensor, and actuator integrations.
• Analyzes and decomposes system requirements collaboratively with other engineering disciplines.
• Writes software requirements specifications, software test descriptions, design descriptions, and test reports.
• Designs, implements, tests, and documents software according to KUAS specifications.

Requirements

• BS degree in Computing Science, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or other technical discipline, or 15 years of relevant experience in lieu of a degree.
• 10 years of C or C++ programming experience.
• Demonstrated understanding of Object-Oriented programming principles and RTOS systems.
• Demonstrated understanding of the software development life-cycle and ability to clearly document software requirements.
• Hands-on ability to troubleshoot hardware-in-the-loop simulation modeling and make firmware updates.
• U.S. Citizenship required (may be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance at the appropriate level).

Preferred Qualifications

• Skills with tools such as Atlassian, MATLAB/Simulink, VxWorks, LabView.
• Skills implementing interface controls based on MBSE design documentation.
• Previous familiarity with OMS/UCI, A-GRA, STANAG 4586, DO-178C, AS9100, DoDI 8500.01.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Hybrid work arrangement in Roseville, CA (95661): WFH - Monday & Friday / In Office - Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays.
• Office and/or manufacturing environment.
• Ability to stand and sit for long periods of time.
• Ability to perform repetitive motion (keyboarding, 10-key, phones).
• May be required to lift up to 50 pounds in accordance with KUAS General Safety Training guidelines.
• Relocation assistance may be offered based on candidate eligibility.

Travel Requirements

5-10% travel may be required between other KUAS locations.

Pay

$160,000 - $225,000

Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Coverage
• Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
• Paid Time-Off (PTO)
• Holidays
• Education Reimbursement