Autonomy Engineer

Ascend Engineering
Chicago, US
On-site

Job Description

We are seeking an engineer to develop and deploy autonomy capabilities on UAV platforms using PX4 or ArduPilot. This role involves modifying autopilot firmware, integrating sensors and payloads, and validating autonomous behaviors through real-world flight testing. The engineer will work across the full UAV stack—from embedded flight software to mission logic and system integration—while maintaining a strong focus on reliability and practical field performance.

This position requires someone who enjoys both software development and hands-on hardware work. The ideal candidate is comfortable debugging complex systems, flying test platforms, and taking ownership of projects from concept through field validation.

  • *MUST HAVE PERMANENT RESIDENCE IN US**

Responsibilities

Develop and modify PX4 or ArduPilot firmware to support new autonomy features and system capabilities

Implement mission logic, flight behaviors, and MAVLink integrations

Integrate sensors, cameras, radios, and payloads into UAV platforms

Conduct flight testing and validate system performance in real-world conditions

Analyze flight logs and telemetry to diagnose and resolve issues

Debug problems across the UAV stack including firmware, networking, hardware, and companion computers

Collaborate with engineers to design robust UAV architectures and workflows

Document system behavior, debugging results, and design decisions

Required Qualifications

Experience modifying or contributing to PX4 or ArduPilot codebases

Strong C++ or C programming skills

Experience flying and testing UAV platforms

Familiarity with MAVLink, flight logs, and autopilot configuration

Experience debugging complex software and hardware interactions

Ability to work independently and take ownership of engineering tasks

Strong problem-solving skills and practical engineering judgment

Preferred Qualifications

Experience building or configuring drones from components

Familiarity with companion computers (Linux), MAVSDK, or ROS

Experience integrating sensors such as LiDAR, cameras, or GPS systems

Experience with embedded systems or hardware debugging

Experience analyzing flight logs and tuning flight controllers

Personal robotics, UAV, or embedded systems projects

What We Value

Engineers who build and experiment outside of work

Strong ownership and accountability for outcomes

Practical, hands-on problem solving

Clear communication and collaboration within small teams

Curiosity and continuous learning

Skills & Requirements

Technical Skills

Px4ArdupilotC++CMavlinkFlight logsAutopilot configurationEmbedded systemsHardware debuggingFlight logsTuning flight controllersLeadershipCommunicationUavAutonomyEmbedded systems

Soft Skills

Problem-solvingOwnershipCommunicationTeamwork

Domain Knowledge

UAVAutonomyEngineering

Salary

$100,000 - $160,000

year

Employment Type

FULL TIME

Level

mid

Posted

3/28/2026

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