Principal Automation Engineer in San Diego, California at Firestorm

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 is seeking a Principal Automation Engineer to own the software that takes UAS platforms from first power-on to mission-ready flight. This role is responsible for delivering integrated, reliable systems across autonomy, vehicle control, and verification, with direct impact on platforms that are designed, built, and flown on rapid timelines.
You will operate at the center of hardware, autonomy, and test, making decisions that directly affect system performance, reliability, and mission success. This is a hands-on role for an engineer who wants to move quickly from code to flight, take ownership of outcomes, and iterate on real systems in the lab and in the air.
What You’ll Do

• Deliver integrated, flight-ready software across autopilot, onboard compute, and vehicle systems
• Lead bring-up, integration, and validation on hardware, driving issues through resolution to flight
• Define and control software interfaces across flight systems, payloads, and ground control
• Set software architecture, coding standards, and design patterns within the team
• Make system-level tradeoffs across embedded software, autonomy, and test infrastructure
• Design, build, and scale automated test frameworks across unit, integration, SIL, and HIL
• Develop and operate HIL environments with realistic sensor, telemetry, and vehicle simulation
• Establish repeatable verification workflows that enable rapid iteration with high confidence
• Build tooling for real-time monitoring, data capture, and post-flight analysis
• Support flight test campaigns and convert test data into actionable improvements
• Reduce cycle time from code change to validated flight behavior
• Act as a technical authority across software integration and verification efforts

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related field; may substitute equivalent hands-on experience in lieu of a degree
• 15+ years of experience in UAS, robotics, autonomous systems, or software engineering
• U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations & the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance
• Hands-on experience with autopilot systems such as PX4, ArduPilot or similar platforms, and MAVLink-based communication
• Strong proficiency in Python and C or C++ for flight software and test frameworks
• Demonstrated experience designing and operating SIL and HIL systems
• Experience operating at a staff or principal level with ownership of crossfunctional, team, technical direction
• Effectively communicates complex technical concepts clearly to both engineering and program stakeholders
• Aligns crossfunctional teams including hardware, systems, and manufacturing without respectful authority
• 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

• Comfortable operating in fast-moving, ambiguous environments; creates clarity and drives execution with incomplete requirements
• Track record of building reusable tools and frameworks adopted beyond the immediate team
• Strong systems thinker with focus on scalable and maintainable solutions
• Methodical and persistent in diagnosing integration and test failures
• Willing to work hands-on in the lab and on the flight line; owns problems through resolution

Work Environment

• Based at our Headquarters in San Diego, CA
• This role requires an on-site presence

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: $238,000 - $262,000 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.