Software Engineer II /Embedded Systems & Software

Position Overview

We are seeking a hands-on, mid-level Software Engineer to develop, integrate, and maintain

software for unmanned surface vessels (USVs) and autonomous maritime systems.

This role emphasizes rapid software development, embedded systems integration, and practical

engineering solutions. The ideal candidate is comfortable working in an evolving development

environment, delivering reliable features quickly, and introducing lightweight tools and

workflows that improve team productivity without unnecessary overhead.

The engineer will work closely with software, mechanical, electrical, and networking teams to

develop and support onboard computing, communication systems, video services, vehicle

telemetry, and third-party integrations.

Required Qualifications

Python and C++: Strong Python development skills and working proficiency in C++

Linux: Experience developing, deploying, and troubleshooting software on Linux-based

systems

Version Control: Experience with Git, GitLab, or equivalent source-control platforms,

including branching and code reviews

Project Management: Familiarity with Jira or similar issue-tracking tools

AI-Assisted Development: Experience using generative AI coding tools such as Cursor,

OpenAI Codex, or similar

Networking: Understanding of TCP/IP, UDP, Ethernet, network routing, and

connectivity troubleshooting

Software Integration: Experience integrating software with hardware, sensors, APIs,

and communication protocols

Testing and Debugging: Experience developing automated tests and troubleshooting

complex software issues

Software Development: Ability to independently develop, test, and deliver reliable

software features

Embedded Systems: Familiarity with embedded computing platforms and

hardware/software interfaces

Preferred Qualifications

ArduPilot, ArduRover, and MAVLink

ATAK/WinTAK integration and plugin development

NVIDIA Jetson or other embedded Linux platforms

Docker and containerized applications

GitLab CI/CD, automated builds, and deployment scripting

CAN bus, UART, serial communications, and hardware interfaces

Video streaming technologies such as RTSP, WebRTC, FFmpeg, GStreamer, and

MediaMTX

GNSS, radar, cameras, and marine electronics

Satellite, cellular, and other variable-bandwidth communication systems

Experience with autonomous vehicles, robotics, maritime systems, or defense technology

PostgreSQL or other database technologies

Key Responsibilities

Develop, test, and maintain Python and C++ applications for unmanned maritime

platforms

Integrate third-party sensors, cameras, radar, communication systems, and software

Develop and support vehicle telemetry, remote monitoring, video streaming, and system

health applications

Troubleshoot complex software, networking, operating system, and hardware integration

issues

Develop lightweight automated tests, build scripts, and deployment tools

Improve GitLab development workflows and software release practices where they

provide practical value

Create repeatable procedures for building, packaging, and deploying onboard and

operator-facing software

Support development and integration of MAVLink, ArduPilot, and TAK-based systems

as needed

Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, networking, autonomy, and software engineering

teams

Support laboratory, dockside, and on-water integration and testing

Maintain clear technical documentation, version control, and development tasks

Use AI-assisted development tools to accelerate development, debugging, and testing

while maintaining software quality

Ideal Candidate

Enjoys hands-on software development and practical engineering challenges

Can move quickly from requirements to working software

Comfortable developing solutions in a fast-paced, evolving environment

Understands how to balance rapid prototyping with long-term reliability and

maintainability

Proactively identifies repetitive tasks and introduces simple automation

Knows when a lightweight script or workflow is more appropriate than a complex

infrastructure solution

Can independently troubleshoot issues across applications, Linux, networking, and

embedded hardware

Works effectively with multidisciplinary engineering teams

Additional Requirements

Willingness to work hands-on with embedded hardware and autonomous vehicle systems

Ability to independently manage assigned development tasks and priorities

Willingness to participate in field testing and occasional travel

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Ability to document technical work and collaborate effectively with other engineers

Physical Requirements and Working Environment

This role combines office and laboratory work with hands-on vessel integration and outdoor testing.

Ability to manually lift and carry equipment and materials weighing up to 50 pounds.

Ability to crawl, kneel, crouch, bend, climb, and work in confined or awkward spaces while installing, inspecting, and servicing equipment on and around vessels.

Ability to safely board and move around boats, docks, and uneven or wet surfaces.

Comfortable working outdoors and in marine environments, including dockside activities and on-water testing.

Occasional travel and schedule flexibility may be required to support trials and demonstrations.

Background Check

This position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check. Qualified candidates with a criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal and state law.

EEO and ITAR/EAR Work Authorization Disclosure

Red Cat Holdings provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This position requires direct or indirect access to hardware, software, technology or technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Successful candidates for positions subject to ITAR/EAR restrictions must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residence and must not require sponsorship for export-restricted work authorization.

E-Verify

The company participates E-Verify ensure eligibility for employment and compliance with Right to Work rules.

Compensation: Base pay, plus generous annual equity package and potential bonuses.