Software Engineer (C2 Integrations) in Phoenix, Arizona at AIRO Group Holdings, Inc.

Build the Future with Us

At AIRO, we bring together aircraft, autonomy, avionics, and mission services into one integrated platform designed for the environments where failure is not an option. Our technology supports contested logistics, tactical and long-range ISTAR, and operations that demand precision under pressure, so the people who depend on it can get where they need to be when it matters most. Here, you will work alongside innovators, engineers, operators, and industry leaders who share a passion for solving hard problems and building what comes next in aerospace and defense.

Join us and be part of something extraordinary.

Position Overview:

Airo is seeking a high-caliber Software Engineering Lead (C2 Integration) to pioneer seamless, mission-critical interoperability between our autonomous UAS platforms and broader defense ecosystems. In this hands-on leadership role, you will architect and build the communication, telemetry, and payload integration layers that bridge Airo’s UAS’ to external Command and Control (C2) networks and third-party Ground Control Stations (GCS). You will own the strategy for tactical open-architecture standards such as Cursor on Target (CoT), MAVLink, UCI, and OMS; ensuring reliable, low-latency execution in contested, bandwidth-constrained edge environments. By driving software-in-the-loop (SITL) and hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) integration from the lab to live flight lines, you will directly deliver the C2 abstraction frameworks that empower operators in the field.

Key Responsibilities:

• Architect C2 Middleware & Abstraction Layers: Design, develop, and deliver robust C2 abstraction software and SDK adapters to seamlessly link Airo UAS platforms with diverse third-party GCS and defense tactical networks.
• Drive Interoperability Protocols: Lead portfolio-wide integration of core defense messaging standards, including Cursor on Target (CoT), MAVLink, UCI, and OMS across airborne and ground nodes.
• Engineer Video & Telemetry Pipelines: Build and optimize resilient, low-latency video streaming pipelines and telemetry routing utilizing RTSP, WebRTC, and real-time networking protocols.
• Develop TAK & GCS Plugins: Author custom plugins, integrations, and operator interfaces for ATAK, WinTAK, and commercial/enterprise Ground Control Stations.
• Execute SITL / HITL Testing: Lead comprehensive Software-in-the-Loop (SITL) and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) testing regimes to validate C2 communication layers before deploying to live flight hardware.
• Conduct Field Trials & Live Flight Integration: Deploy alongside flight test operators and integration engineers to validate real-time C2 telemetry, troubleshoot live link issues, and iterate rapidly on field feedback.

Qualifications:

• BS in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field with 8+ years of software experience and proven technical leadership across robotics, aerospace, defense tech, or autonomous systems.
• Expert proficiency in C++ and/or Rust, paired with strong Python skills for backend integration, tooling, and middleware services.
• Deep expertise with C2 protocols, specifically MAVLink, Cursor on Target (CoT), and open defense architectures (UCI/OMS).
• Hands-on plugin development experience for ATAK/TAK ecosystems and third-party Enterprise Ground Control Stations.
• Demonstrated background building streaming pipelines using RTSP, WebRTC, and UDP/TCP sockets in low-bandwidth, disconnected environments.
• Proven Track record with SITL/HITL testing, lab simulation environments, and live flight test execution.

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience building C2 SDKs or modular middleware abstraction layers from the ground up.
• Working knowledge of STANAG 4586, DDS (Data Distribution Service), or custom tactical mesh network integrations.
• Familiarity with containerized edge deployments (Docker/K8s) and embedded Linux operating environments.
• Active or prior security clearance or eligibility to obtain U.S. defense access.

SECURITY & COMPLIANCE

• Comply with all company information, security policies and procedures
• Ensure proper handling and protection of proprietary information
• Share information only on a need-to-know basis
• Adhere to company non-disclosure requirements

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit, stand, and/or walk for extended periods
• Ability to use hands and fingers for manual dexterity and repetitive tasks
• Ability to bend, stoop, reach, push, pull, and lift as required by the position
• Ability to safely lift, carry, push, or pull objects within the requirements of the position
• Ability to perform the visual, auditory, and communication requirements necessary to perform the essential functions of the position
• Ability to work safely in the physical and environmental conditions applicable to the position

Company Benefits

• Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Paid Holidays

• Parental Leave

• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance

• Health Savings Account (HSA)

• 401(k) with company match

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Commuter Benefits

• Basic Life Insurance – fully paid by the company for employees and their dependents

• Long-Term Disability Insurance – fully paid by the company

• Voluntary Short-Term Disability Insurance

• Supplemental Life Insurance options

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive, and the employee may also be asked to perform other reasonably related job duties as assigned by their immediate supervisor as required. All employees may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time as needed. The AIRO Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer.