Software Engineer (C2 Integrations)

AIRO Group Holdings, Inc. • Phoenix, AZ

2h

About The Position

Airo is seeking a high-caliber Software Engineering Lead (C2 Integration) to pioneer seamless, mission-critical interoperability between our autonomous UAS platforms and broader defense ecosystems. In this hands-on leadership role, you will architect and build the communication, telemetry, and payload integration layers that bridge Airo’s UAS’ to external Command and Control (C2) networks and third-party Ground Control Stations (GCS). You will own the strategy for tactical open-architecture standards such as Cursor on Target (CoT), MAVLink, UCI, and OMS; ensuring reliable, low-latency execution in contested, bandwidth-constrained edge environments. By driving software-in-the-loop (SITL) and hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) integration from the lab to live flight lines, you will directly deliver the C2 abstraction frameworks that empower operators in the field.

Requirements

• BS in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field with 8+ years of software experience and proven technical leadership across robotics, aerospace, defense tech, or autonomous systems.
• Expert proficiency in C++ and/or Rust, paired with strong Python skills for backend integration, tooling, and middleware services.
• Deep expertise with C2 protocols, specifically MAVLink, Cursor on Target (CoT), and open defense architectures (UCI/OMS).
• Hands-on plugin development experience for ATAK/TAK ecosystems and third-party Enterprise Ground Control Stations.
• Demonstrated background building streaming pipelines using RTSP, WebRTC, and UDP/TCP sockets in low-bandwidth, disconnected environments.
• Proven Track record with SITL/HITL testing, lab simulation environments, and live flight test execution.
• Ability to sit, stand, and/or walk for extended periods
• Ability to use hands and fingers for manual dexterity and repetitive tasks
• Ability to bend, stoop, reach, push, pull, and lift as required by the position
• Ability to safely lift, carry, push, or pull objects within the requirements of the position
• Ability to perform the visual, auditory, and communication requirements necessary to perform the essential functions of the position
• Ability to work safely in the physical and environmental conditions applicable to the position

Nice To Haves

• Direct experience building C2 SDKs or modular middleware abstraction layers from the ground up.
• Working knowledge of STANAG 4586, DDS (Data Distribution Service), or custom tactical mesh network integrations.
• Familiarity with containerized edge deployments (Docker/K8s) and embedded Linux operating environments.
• Active or prior security clearance or eligibility to obtain U.S. defense access.

Responsibilities

• Architect C2 Middleware & Abstraction Layers: Design, develop, and deliver robust C2 abstraction software and SDK adapters to seamlessly link Airo UAS platforms with diverse third-party GCS and defense tactical networks.
• Drive Interoperability Protocols: Lead portfolio-wide integration of core defense messaging standards, including Cursor on Target (CoT), MAVLink, UCI, and OMS across airborne and ground nodes.
• Engineer Video & Telemetry Pipelines: Build and optimize resilient, low-latency video streaming pipelines and telemetry routing utilizing RTSP, WebRTC, and real-time networking protocols.
• Develop TAK & GCS Plugins: Author custom plugins, integrations, and operator interfaces for ATAK, WinTAK, and commercial/enterprise Ground Control Stations.
• Execute SITL / HITL Testing: Lead comprehensive Software-in-the-Loop (SITL) and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) testing regimes to validate C2 communication layers before deploying to live flight hardware.
• Conduct Field Trials & Live Flight Integration: Deploy alongside flight test operators and integration engineers to validate real-time C2 telemetry, troubleshoot live link issues, and iterate rapidly on field feedback.
• Comply with all company information, security policies and procedures
• Ensure proper handling and protection of proprietary information
• Share information only on a need-to-know basis
• Adhere to company non-disclosure requirements

Benefits

• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays
• Parental Leave
• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• 401(k) with company match
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Commuter Benefits
• Basic Life Insurance – fully paid by the company for employees and their dependents
• Long-Term Disability Insurance – fully paid by the company
• Voluntary Short-Term Disability Insurance
• Supplemental Life Insurance options

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior