Forward Deployed Engineer (FDE)

TerraSense Analytics Ltd • Kelowna, BC

14d • Hybrid

About The Position

As a Forward Deployed Engineer (FDE) at TerraSense Analytics, you will operate at the critical intersection of advanced software engineering, AI/ML deployment, and frontline customer success. You will be tasked with bringing cutting-edge Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) solutions directly to our most strategic clients. This role is not just about coding; it’s about shaping technical strategy and ensuring successful outcomes in a mission-critical environment.

Requirements

• A technical diploma in computer technology or a computer science degree, with 3+ years of industry experience in software deployment and a strong engineering background.
• Proven experience in architecting, building, testing, and deploying production-ready production level software.
• A highly analytical mindset with the ability to continuously learn, work independently, and make decisions with minimal supervision in ambiguous, rapidly changing environments.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to conduct discovery with customers, convey technical concepts to diverse stakeholders, and build trust with defense operators. Proven ability to maintain professional composure and represent the company's interests in high-pressure, austere, or military-centric environments.
• Must be eligible to attain a high-level Security Clearance (NATO Secret minimum) and maintain clean criminal record checks as per contract compliance. Failure to obtain or the revocation of such clearances may result in termination of employment for cause.
• Willingness and interest to travel as needed to client sites and military bases, with an ability to travel 25-50% of the time. Willing to maintain any required travel vaccines, as well as have no passport restrictions to enter other countries.
• Physical ability to transport and install ISR hardware (up to 50lbs) and transverse over uneven terrain, to include active military training areas or maritime environments.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with the Canadian Controlled Goods Program (CGP) or the US International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) is considered an asset.
• Experience delivering product training to end-users is considered an asset.

Responsibilities

• Deploy, configure, and scale deep learning models to low-SWaP (Size, Weight, and Power) edge computing devices, including drones, airborne ISR platforms, naval vessels, and ground systems.
• Work directly in the field to integrate the MIST® platform with STANAG 4609 compliant EO/IR gimbals and STANAG 4607 GMTI/SAR radars to deliver real-time detection, recognition, and tracking.
• Build custom components, APIs, and data pipelines to ensure the system seamlessly outputs geolocated targets into existing military mission workflows via MIL-STD 2525 icons and Cursor on Target messages.
• Provide on-site, hands-on support to troubleshoot and optimize complex systems during active field test events and real-world military deployments, both domestically and internationally.
• Serve as the technical bridge between military end-users and TerraSense's core product and engineering teams, translating field experience and customer needs into product roadmap improvements.
• Lead hands-on execution and technical troubleshooting during active military field test events. Validate the real-time performance, reliability, and sensor interoperability of the MIST® platform on low-SWaP edge devices (such as drones and airborne ISR platforms) under live, tactical operating conditions.
• Develop and deliver technical training packages to military operators and maintainers to ensure platform self-sufficiency post-deployment.
• Adhere to Canadian legislation and regulations regarding safety and export controls (ie. OHS, Canadian Controlled Goods Program), while handling sensitive hardware and software. Additionally must adhere to any host-nation and/or military-specific regulations while deployed internationally.

Benefits

• 5 weeks flexible paid vacation, PLUS an additional 1 week paid vacation during the Christmas holiday season. A total of 6 weeks paid vacation!
• Training and professional development allowance.
• Competitive medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• Okanagan Relocation Top Up: a 10% top up on your agreed upon salary, paid out quarterly.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Associate degree
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees