[Remote] Embedded Software Engineer III - PX4 Firmware & Simulation

Note: The job is a remote job and is open to candidates in USA. Zone 5 Technologies is redefining unmanned aircraft systems with innovative solutions. They are seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to develop and maintain custom PX4 autopilot firmware for autonomous aerial platforms, focusing on firmware development, simulation environments, and system integration.ResponsibilitiesDevelop, modify, and maintain custom PX4 firmware modules for mission-specific requirementsImplement custom flight modes, navigation algorithms, and control strategiesIntegrate sensors, actuators, and payloads through PX4 driver and uORB message frameworkDebug firmware issues using GDB, serial consoles, and flight log analysisPatch and backport fixes across PX4 versions while maintaining stabilityMaintain build infrastructure using CMake, Make, and embedded toolchainsConfigure cross-compilation environments for ARM Cortex-M target architecturesManage firmware dependencies, submodules, and third-party librariesCreate reproducible build configurations and automate firmware generation pipelinesDevelop and maintain SITL (Software-in-the-Loop) and HITL (Hardware-in-the-Loop) test environmentsIntegrate PX4 with physics-based simulation platforms for validation and regression testingCreate automated test scenarios to validate firmware changes before flight testingConfigure MAVLink communication interfaces for ground control and companion computer integrationIntegrate PX4 with companion computers running ROS2-based autonomy stacksDevelop MAVLink and UART communication protocols between flight controller and edge compute modulesSupport flight test operations including pre-flight checks, log collection, and post-flight analysisCollaborate with hardware, autonomy, and systems engineers to diagnose and resolve integration issuesSkillsBachelor's in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field – equivalent industry experience also welcome4-6+ years of experience in embedded software development with focus on real-time systemsStrong proficiency in C and C++ for embedded systems programmingHands-on experience with PX4 autopilot firmware architecture and developmentDeep understanding of build systems including CMake, Make, and embedded toolchainsExperience with ARM Cortex-M microcontrollers and embedded debugging toolsSolid grasp of control theory, state estimation, and sensor fusion fundamentalsUnderstanding of MAVLink protocol and communication with ground control stationsExperience developing and maintaining simulation environments for embedded systems testingExperience with multi-rotor or fixed-wing UAV flight dynamics and controlFamiliarity with ROS2 and companion computer integration architecturesKnowledge of Kalman filtering (EKF/UKF) and inertial navigation systemsUnderstanding of safety-critical software development practicesExperience with UART, SPI, I2C, and CAN bus protocolsBackground in flight testing and airworthiness proceduresKnowledge of RTOS concepts and real-time schedulingExperience with version control workflows for firmware developmentFamiliarity with Python for scripting, automation, and data analysisUnderstanding of power systems, motor control, and electronic speed controllersExperience with continuous integration systems for embedded firmwareBenefitsCompetitive total compensation packageComprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.401k with company-match4 weeks of paid time off each year12 annual company holidaysCompany OverviewZone 5 Technologies is an aviation component manufacturing company that develops and tests unmanned aircraft systems. It was founded in 2011, and is headquartered in San Luis Obispo, California, USA, with a workforce of 201-500 employees. Its website is https://www.zone5tech.com.