Senior Integrations Engineer

Firestorm•Rome, NY

4h•$116,000 - $167,000•Onsite

About The Position

Firestorm Labs is seeking an experienced Senior Integrations Engineer to integrate advanced physical and digital payloads into next-generation Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS). The engineer will work directly with customers at a Department of Defense installation to specify, install, test, and troubleshoot custom payloads. The role calls for expertise in avionics, embedded systems, RF communications, tactical networking, and real-time software integration. The engineer will collaborate with platform, autonomy, and software engineering teams to integrate customer-defined payloads and deliver mission-ready systems. Work includes integration, testing, troubleshooting, repair, and deployment support in laboratory, manufacturing, and field settings, often in high-pressure environments. The role is on-site in Rome, New York, and may require travel of up to 15% and occasional weekend work.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Electrical, Systems, or Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
At least 5 years of experience in systems integration, troubleshooting, and field operations.
U.S. citizenship required due to ITAR regulations, and ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense security clearance.
Strong networking knowledge, including configuration and troubleshooting of Ethernet, TCP/IP, VPNs, VLANs, and wireless systems.
Proficiency with Linux (Ubuntu, CentOS, or RedHat) and Windows systems, including strong command-line skills.
Programming and scripting experience in Python, Bash, Shell, and C/C++, including embedded software development.
Ability to troubleshoot avionics systems, embedded software, RF equipment, and integrated hardware stacks.
Familiarity with Software Defined Radios (SDRs), including configuration and performance tuning.
Experience with virtualization and container tools such as VMware, Docker, and Kubernetes.
Understanding of cybersecurity compliance requirements and best practices for embedded systems and tactical networks.
Strong technical writing skills for documenting systems, procedures, and troubleshooting steps.
Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record to support offsite deployments.
Ability to lift up to 30 lbs. and work in austere conditions.
Willingness to travel up to 15% for field operations, integration events, customer support, and testing, and to work occasional weekends to meet production or deployment timelines.
Ability to work in environments that may involve dust, heat, vibration, loud noise, cold, or chemicals, using PPE as required.
Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move regularly throughout the day; manual dexterity to operate standard machine and office equipment.

Nice To Haves

7 or more years of experience in systems integration, troubleshooting, and field operations.
Experience in high-tech, aerospace, or DoD-related manufacturing environments, including military, spacecraft, or aircraft work.
Experience delivering UAS systems to market in defense or commercial sectors.
Hands-on integration and testing of Electronic Warfare (EW) systems in operational environments.
Background in test planning, requirements traceability, and formal verification and validation.
Knowledge of military standards such as MIL-STD-810 for environmental compliance and MIL-STD-461 for EMI/EMC.
Proficiency with PX4 Autopilot, including system setup, parameter tuning, and diagnostics.
Familiarity with ROS or similar robotics middleware for autonomy and control systems.
Deep knowledge of cybersecurity concerns related to unmanned systems, RF networks, and embedded avionics.
Knowledge of FAA regulations and certification processes for unmanned aircraft systems.
Analytical mindset and ability to perform under pressure in fast-paced, mission-driven environments.

Responsibilities

Integrate avionics, mission payloads, flight controllers, and embedded subsystems while meeting reliability, safety, and performance standards.
Configure, manage, and troubleshoot tactical and airborne networks, including RF links and embedded communications systems.
Diagnose and resolve electromechanical, avionics, and embedded software issues in laboratory and field environments.
Translate mission requirements into clear technical specifications.
Develop and maintain embedded and application-level software; write Python, Bash, Shell, and C/C++ scripts and tools for automation, testing, and integration.
Create and execute test plans, validate performance, analyze results, and provide technical recommendations.
Partner with technical writers to develop integration guides, test reports, user manuals, and troubleshooting materials.
Collaborate across teams and use additive manufacturing and simulation tools to accelerate development.
Provide performance data and constructive feedback to hardware design and manufacturing teams.
Repair and rework Firestorm products and third-party hardware systems to maintain mission readiness.
Support preparation, configuration, and deployment of MECCS (Modular Electronic Command and Control Systems).
Assemble and integrate custom or ad-hoc hardware and software payloads for mission- and customer-specific needs.
Stay informed about technologies in avionics, embedded systems, tactical networking, and unmanned systems.

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans.
401(k) Retirement Savings Plan.
Equity grants for new hires.
Unlimited PTO.
Generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November and December.
Generous parental leave.
Lifestyle Spending Account.
FSA, DCFSA, and HSA.
Hospital indemnity insurance.
Critical illness insurance.
Accident insurance.
Basic life/AD&D and short- and long-term disability insurance, covered 100% by Firestorm, with the option to purchase additional life insurance.
Free 24/7 mental health resources, including therapy.
Free legal and financial support and other work-life services.
Relocation assistance may be included in the offer package where appropriate.
Career growth opportunities.