Principal Software Engineer - Autonomous Vehicles

The Scientific Systems Products Division is currently seeking a Principal Software Engineer skilled in the area of Autonomous Vehicles and Uncrewed Systems. The successful candidate will be tasked with developing software for advanced AI/ML programs linked to multi-vehicle autonomous flight systems and crewed-uncrewed collaboration.

Scientific Systems Company, Inc. () is a prominent creator of advanced technologies, particularly for navigation, mission planning, and autonomy for the Aerospace and Defense industries. Founded in 1990 and headquartered in Woburn, MA, Scientific Systems Company Inc. (SSCI) is known for inventing disruptive technologies, developing ground-breaking solutions, and manufacturing trustworthy products for our customers’ most complex missions. The main focus of SSCI is the construction of AI/ML-enabled abilities meant for the command, control, communication, and management of intelligent agents, smart sensors, and autonomous platforms in various domains.

*A current DoD Security Clearance SECRET (or above) is required for this position*

Job Duties:

• Develop innovative software for multi-vehicle autonomy within intricate, contested environments.
• Lead a team in the design, implementation, testing, and deployment of autonomy software systems for embedded uncrewed multi-vehicle autonomy, utilised across a range of programs and customers.
• Present technical outcomes to both internal and external customers.
• Aid in business development and customer relations.
• Support various other company initiatives and programs.
• This role could be based in Northern Virginia/DC; or Boston/Burlington, MA Area; or remotely with occasional approved travel.

Requirements

Essential Skills

• An active SECRET clearance or higher is mandatory.
• A minimum of 12 years' experience and a Master’s degree (or more) in Computer Science or related engineering field.
• At least 12 years' industry experience (preferably in the DoD), including time as a software team lead for software R&D for AI in Robotics, Machine Learning, Robotic Planning/Optimisation Techniques, and/or Autonomous Uncrewed Systems Software.
• Proven knowledge in C/C++, Python, and (preferably) relevant memory-safe languages. Familiarity with Linux-based development environments is highly valued.
• Aptitude for designing complex software system architecture and integration with DoD-standard architectures and interfaces.
• Previous experience leading developer teams to construct modular, reusable software with ready-for-deployment production values, applicable to numerous software portfolios covering multiple programs and customers.
• Experience in building and maintaining customer relationships.

• Experience with current software development tool chains and processes such as Agile, git/Gitlab/Github, Confluence/Jira, CI/CD, and automated testing methodologies, etc.

• Knowledge in DoD or other standard robotics and datalink architecture standards, particularly OMS and AFSIM, but also FACE, DDS, ROS, STANAG 4586, J-Series, and so on.

Desirable Skills

• Knowledge of AI robotic navigation and decision algorithms such as path planning (A*, RRT), schedule optimisation (Simulated Annealing, Genetic Algorithms, Tabu Search), distributed coordination algorithms.

• Must have excellent oral communication abilities and technical writing skills.

Benefits

The salary is competitive according to market rates and includes an annual bonus based on individual and company performance. SSCI's benefits package includes 401K, and Health/Life/Disability Insurance.