Software Engineering Technician at Firestorm – San Diego, California

Who We Are
At Firestorm, we're building toward a future defined by incontestable defense logistics. That means equipping warfighters with mission-critical capabilities at the point of need. Not in months, not from a depot halfway around the world, but now, in the field, on demand.
We're a VC-backed defense technology company pioneering an expeditionary manufacturing ecosystem that produces and sustains modular, mission-adaptable unmanned systems, parts and components for repair and sustainment, and the software to transform point solutions into a network of strategic assets.
We're building a team of engineers, operators, and problem-solvers who believe the future of deterrence cannot rely only on expensive, exquisite platforms made in centralized factories. We build and field affordable systems using distributed production capabilities at the edge. If you want to solve challenging problems that will reshape the future of defense, you're in the right place.
About the Role Firestorm Labs is seeking a driven and experienced Software Engineering Technician to join our Engineering Team. The Software Engineering Technician plays a critical hands-on role spanning aircraft test operations, fleet maintenance, and technical support. This individual will work closely with engineering, flight test, and customer success teams to ensure vehicles are mission-ready, software and hardware are current, and field and shop-level issues are resolved efficiently. The ideal candidate brings a blend of technical aptitude, operational discipline, and a willingness to get their hands on hardware.
What You’ll Do
Fleet Maintenance & Configuration Management

• Operate and maintain vehicle configuration and maintenance management systems
• Maintain high-level and vehicle-specific dashboards tracking hardware, software, and payload configurations
• Coordinate rollout of engineering directives, software updates, and hardware upgrades across the fleet
• Manage and track preventative maintenance schedules, refits, and overhauls
• Identify out-of-revision and at-risk components; develop recommendations to eliminate mission risk
• Prepare reports tracking vehicle downtime, root causes, and corrective actions
• Communicate fleet health, risks, and readiness status to internal leadership and stakeholders

Technical Support

• Serve as first-line technical support, triaging issues using structured troubleshooting scripts and documentation
• Apply working knowledge of embedded Linux, electronics, and networking to diagnose and resolve system-level problems
• Collaborate with engineering to escalate unresolved issues and contribute findings to R&D decisions
• Interact with internal teams and external stakeholders at various levels to coordinate support activities
• Assist in development of project plans and manage necessary resources to ensure exceptional support for end-use customers

Aircraft Test & Taxi Operations

• Perform low-speed taxi tests on aircraft using RC controls
• Support full aircraft builds and submodule testing including engine tuning, control surface checks, and battery charging/management
• Serve as a manufacturing quality control checkpoint, identifying mechanical and electrical issues before aircraft leave the production line
• Assist skilled pilots during flight campaigns and field events
• Support test event preparation locally and at remote customer or demonstration sites

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related field; may substitute equivalent hands-on experience in lieu of a degree
• 2+ years of experience in a technical support, fleet maintenance, field operations or related role
• U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations & the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance
• Basic familiarity with embedded Linux, electronics, and networking concepts
• Strong attention to detail with ability to accurately collect, organize, and report operational data
• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Comfortable working collaboratively across engineering, operations, and customer-facing teams
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint) for data tracking, reporting, and communication

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with aircraft, avionics, or UAV, USV, and UxV systems
• Background in aircraft or robotics build, integration, or maintenance
• Hands-on experience maintaining asset management or fleet maintenance systems
• Experience scripting in Python, Bash, or similar to automate tasks
• Familiarity with Tableau or equivalent dashboard/analytics tools
• Background in startup or high-growth environments

Work Environment

• Based at our Headquarters in San Diego, CA
• This role requires an on-site presence
• Must be able to lift up to 30 lbs. and wear appropriate PPE [as required]
• Willingness to travel up to 25% domestically for flight testing, field operations, integration events, & customer support.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record to support offsite flight operations & testing.
• This role will include working in an outdoor environment under various weather conditions.

This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office equipment and may involve exposure to loud noise, heat, cold, dust, or chemicals (with PPE). This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments. May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment. This is a fast-paced work environment and requires cross departmental collaboration with independent and team-based responsibilities.
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard machine equipment as well as standard office equipment. Must be physically capable of tolerating loud noise, heat, cold, dust, or chemicals (with PPE).
Compensation US Salary Range: $70,000 - $106,000 USD
The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve. Benefits & Perks Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:

• We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
• Equity grants for new hires
• Unlimited PTO
• Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November, & December.
• Generous Parental Leave
• Lifestyle Spending Account
• FSA
• DCFSA
• HSA
• Hospital Indemnity insurance
• Critical Illness insurance
• Accident insurance
• Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
• Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.

Export Control Compliance To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce. Equal Opportunity Statement Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com so we can provide the support you need.