Chief Software Engineer – Autonomous Systems & AI Integration

📍 Berkeley, MO | Onsite | U.S. Secret Clearance Required

💰 $156,400 – $211,600 base salary

🚀 Lead Innovation in Next-Gen Autonomous Defense Technologies

A top-tier aerospace and defense innovator is seeking a Chief Software Engineer to lead advanced autonomy software initiatives within a high-impact research and development unit. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of unmanned aerial platforms by developing mission systems, prototyping novel capabilities, and executing high-profile demonstrations.

You’ll guide a team responsible for the architecture, integration, and lifecycle support of cutting-edge autonomy software. If you thrive at the intersection of aerospace, AI, and real-world application—and want your work to influence next-gen defense platforms—this role is for you.

🛠 What You'll Lead & Build

• Architect and oversee software development for unmanned/autonomous aircraft systems
• Design modern, modular, and scalable architectures aligned to open standards (e.g., OMS/UCI)
• Lead technical execution for live demonstrations and mission-critical programs
• Integrate third-party and in-house software products across secure platforms
• Mentor engineers and shape the team's development and integration best practices
• Drive alignment between long-term tech vision and program delivery

✅ What You Bring

• Active U.S. Secret Security Clearance (required to start)
• 14+ years in software engineering; 6+ years leading technical teams
• Deep experience with C++ and Python (10+ years each)
• 5+ years in autonomous systems or AI/ML applications in mission software
• Strong familiarity with open architecture environments (OMS/UCI or similar)
• Experience in real-time systems, DevSecOps pipelines, and multi-platform integration
• Proficiency in software development for Windows and Linux environments
• Comfort navigating version control (e.g., Git), CI/CD, Agile workflows

🎯 Preferred Extras

• Bachelor’s or advanced degree in CS, engineering, data science, or related field
• Experience in developing mission systems for aerospace platforms
• Prior work with cloud-based test and simulation environments
• Demonstrated success supporting live flight demos and system certifications

🌐 What We Offer

• Competitive salary: $156,400 – $211,600
• Relocation assistance available
• Comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, vision, 401(k), disability, PTO
• Career growth into senior technical or strategic leadership roles
• Work with a mission-driven team solving complex real-world problems
• Influence the next era of autonomous aerial defense solutions

📅 Application Deadline: May 22, 2025

✈️ Travel: Up to 10%, including international

🕒 Shift: 1st Shift

🔐 Security Clearance: U.S. Secret (Active within past 24 months)

🗽 U.S. Person Requirement: U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee

Are you ready to shape the autonomy frontier? Apply now and lead the development of breakthrough defense technologies.