Senior Software Integration Engineer (Payloads & Integrations)

Who We Are 

At Firestorm, we are building the future of expeditionary defense manufacturing and autonomous systems. Modern conflict has exposed a fundamental problem: the systems needed most by operators are often too expensive, too slow to produce, and too difficult to sustain at scale. Firestorm exists to change that.

We develop mission-adaptable aerial systems and deployable manufacturing infrastructure designed to put capability directly into the hands of the warfighter. From modular unmanned aircraft to xCell — our deployable microfactory — our goal is to make defense systems rapidly deployable, adaptable, and producible at the point of need.

We are looking for builders, operators, and problem-solvers who want to work on meaningful technology with real-world impact. 

About the Role

Firestorm is seeking a Senior Software Integration Engineer to join our Payloads & Integrations team. This role exists to accelerate the integration of new mission payloads and capabilities into Firestorm's autonomous systems.

You will operate at the intersection of software, hardware, and mission systems – developing the interfaces, tooling, and integrations required to rapidly deploy new payload capabilities. This includes integrating cameras, radios, sensors, and other mission equipment through SDKs, APIs, and custom software workflows. You will work closely with Firestorm's core software organization, which owns the mainline software stack. Your role will be to rapidly develop and validate payload integrations through an out-of-cycle (branched) development process, then collaborate with the broader software organization to upstream production-ready capabilities into future releases.

This is a hands-on IC engineering role for someone who enjoys moving quickly across software layers, debugging complex systems, and solving ambiguous integration problems.

What You'll Do 

• Build and maintain software interfaces between payload hardware, mission applications, and autonomy systems
• Integrate SDKs and APIs for cameras, gimbals, radios, sensors, and other mission equipment 
• Develop tools and applications supporting payload configuration, monitoring, and control
• Customize or extend mission applications such as QGroundControl, TAK-based applications, and related operator interfaces
• Debug complex systems spanning Linux, networking, hardware interfaces, and distributed software components 
• Build Docker-based deployment workflows for fielded software capabilities
• Work within a side-branch development process and collaborate with the core software team to make upstream production-ready changes 
• Participate in field testing, demonstrations, and integration activities

Required Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent practical experience).
• U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations.
• 5+ years of professional software engineering experience.
• Strong programming ability in one or more modern languages (C++, Python, Rust, Go, Java, TypeScript, or similar).
• Demonstrated history of holding yourself and your teammates to a high standard, even when it creates discomfort. 
• Strong software engineering fundamentals with experience across multiple layers of the stack 
• Strong Linux experience including command-line workflows, debugging, and system administration tasks 
• Experience with networking fundamentals including TCP/IP, UDP, routing, and network troubleshooting 
• Experience integrating software with external systems through APIs, SDKs, or communication protocols 
• Ability to quickly understand and modify large existing codebases 
• Experience developing reliable production software in fast-moving environments
• Experience with Git including branching and upstream contributions

Preferred Qualifications 

• Background that includes both startup and scale-stage product engineering. 
• Experience with autonomous systems, UAVs, robotics, or defense technology 
• Experience with QGroundControl, MAVLink, PX4, ArduPilot, or similar platforms 
• Experience with TAK ecosystems or tactical mission applications 
• Experience integrating cameras, gimbals, radios, or other payload hardware 
• Experience with embedded systems or edge computing environments 
• Experience with Docker and containerized deployments 
• Experience contributing changes back into shared production software repositories 
• Experience supporting field deployments and troubleshooting operational systems

Work Environment

Based at our Headquarters in San Diego, CA. We welcome candidates who are local or open to relocating; relocation assistance is available and may be included in the offer package where appropriate 

This role includes occasional domestic travel (approximately 10%) for field testing, payload integration, demonstrations, and operational support.

Compensation

US Salary Range: $140,000 - $170,000 USD 

The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.

Benefits & Perks

Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:

• We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
• Equity grants for new hires
• Unlimited PTO
• Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November, & December
• Generous Parental Leave 
• Lifestyle Spending Account
• FSA 
• DCFSA
• HSA
• Hospital Indemnity insurance 
• Critical Illness insurance 
• Accident insurance 
• Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family
• Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well

Export Control Compliance

To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), 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 otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All 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 any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. 

Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com so we can provide the support you need.