Zone 5 Technologies (Zone 5) is a leading UAS, and technology development company founded in 2011 and headquartered in San Luis Obispo, CA. We specialize in creating and testing innovative unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) designed for challenging government applications. Our expertise spans the entire development process, from concept to production, with a focus on air-launched effects, next-gen munitions, counter-UAS systems, and tactical interceptors. At Zone 5, we are committed to driving advancements in technology with our vertically integrated approach.
Join our team at Zone 5 Technologies as the Software Lead at the company, where innovation and cutting-edge technology drive us to pioneer advancements in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Based in the vibrant city of San Luis Obispo, California, we're seeking talented individuals to join our growing team and contribute to our development and advancement for groups 1 to 4 Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS).
Position Summary:
The Unmanned Aircraft Software Lead will oversee the development, integration, and maintenance of software systems for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This role involves leading a team of software engineers, collaborating with cross-functional teams (hardware, systems, and flight operations), and ensuring that all software complies with safety, performance, and regulatory requirements. The candidate will be responsible for the entire software development lifecycle, from requirements gathering through design, implementation, and validation.
Key Responsibilities:
Team Leadership: Lead, mentor, and manage a team of software engineers focused on UAV flight control, communication, mission planning, and data processing software.
Software Architecture & Design: Design and implement software architecture for UAV systems, ensuring scalability, reliability, and performance.
Development and Integration: Lead the development of flight control, mission management, and payload management software, integrating with hardware, sensor, and communication systems.
Testing and Validation: Develop and oversee unit tests, simulation tests, hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) testing, and field flight testing to ensure software performance and safety.
Compliance & Standards: Ensure the software meets regulatory standards such as DO-178C (for airborne systems) and other UAV-related certifications.
Collaboration: Work closely with hardware engineers, systems engineers, and flight operations teams to ensure seamless integration of software with UAV platforms.
Innovation: Stay updated with emerging technologies in UAV software and contribute to the innovation and evolution of the company's UAV products.
Documentation: Create and maintain comprehensive software documentation, including design documents, testing plans, and user manuals.
Required Qualifications:
Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field (Master's preferred).
Experience:
Minimum of 5 years in software development, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
Prior experience with UAV or aerospace software systems is strongly preferred.
Skills:
Expertise in a wide variety of programming languages such as C, C++, C#, Python, Matlab, Simulink.
Knowledge of flight control systems, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and communication protocols (e.g. Stanag4586, Arinc825, MAVLink).
Comprehensive background in networking systems and protocols (UDP, TCP, DNS, DHCP).
Experience with software development tools such as Git, GitHub, and issue tracking systems (e.g., JIRA).
Familiarity with safety-critical systems and relevant standards (DO-178C, ARP4754, etc.).
Strong problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with machine learning, computer vision, or autonomous systems.
Knowledge of satellite or long-range communication systems for UAVs.
Strong DevSecOps background in securing military systems.
CI/CD experience with implementing automated testing and deployment pipelines.
AWS EC2, ECR, S3, Lambda experience.
Benefits:
Competitive salary
Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance fully paid for by the company.
401K plan with company match
4 weeks paid time off.
12 paid holidays
Opportunities for professional development and advancement.
Access to cutting-edge UAV technology and training.
Work in a dynamic and growing industry with exciting career prospects.
Why Join Zone 5 Technologies?
Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.
Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what's possible.
Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be a part of a dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team!
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.