Job Specifications
Who We Are
At Firestorm, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower U.S. ally nations to effectively deter aggressors—regardless of their defense budget—through innovative, cost-efficient technologies. We call this vision “democratized deterrence.” As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we’re pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators. By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we’re pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world-class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all at a fraction of the cost.
About The Role
Firestorm is seeking a skilled Robotics Engineer to join our innovative engineering team in building autonomy and mission systems for next-generation defense platforms. As a Junior Robotics Engineer, you will support software development, testing, and integration for autonomous systems operating in real environments. You’ll help bring autonomy from simulation to field readiness by working across perception, controls, and system integration. This role is hands-on, fast-paced, and offers significant growth and ownership while working alongside experienced engineers.
What You’ll Do
Support development of autonomy and mission-system software components
Develop, implement, and optimize algorithms for real-time perception, localization, and path planning
Implement vision-based target-tracking strategies
Design and integrate interfaces for terminal guidance systems
Build and execute simulation and hardware-in-the-loop testing workflows
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure successful deployment and integration of robotics solutions.
Develop data collection pipelines to aid our perception stack, monitoring system performance of onboard autonomy, and provide insights for continuous improvement.
Contribute to development and improvement of autonomy simulation environments
Integrate sensors, compute hardware, and communication systems into development and test environments
Collect, process, and analyze sensor and flight-test data to drive system improvements
Create tools, automation, and test scripts to accelerate development and validation
Work hands-on with real-time embedded systems and autonomy stacks
Debug and troubleshoot performance issues across software and hardware
Support flight tests and field events, including test planning, execution, and data review
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Robotics, Computer Science, Engineering, or related field
1+ years of professional experience in a robotics engineering role
Familiarity with robotics fundamentals including perception, controls, or autonomy concepts
Knowledge of Python and C++
Exposure to ROS/ROS2, simulation frameworks (e.g., Gazebo, Isaac, PX4), or real-time systems
Ability to work hands-on with hardware, sensors, and embedded platforms
Must be a U.S. Person (citizen or permanent resident) and able to work on-site in San Diego.
Preferred Qualifications
Ph.D in Robotics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
Direct application with C++/C, Python, and MATLAB/Octave
Experience with drones, autonomous vehicles, embedded systems, or aerospace platforms
Hands-on lab, flight-test, or field robotics experience (RC aircraft, UAS, fixed-wing preferred)
Exposure to Git-based workflows, CI/CD, and automated testing
Familiarity with PX4 or ArduPilot (ArduPlane) and ROS
Experience architecting and implementing modular decision trees and behavior nodes to support advanced autonomous behaviors in ariel vehicles
Familiarity with Docker and containerized development workflows
Knowledge of perception, localization, and guidance algorithms
Work Environment
Based at our Headquarters in San Diego, CA
This role requires an on-site presence
Must be able to lift up to 30 lbs. and wear appropriate PPE [as required]
Willingness to travel up to 10% domestically for testing and demonstrations
Ability to work flexible hours and travel to various testing locations as needed
Compensation
US Salary Range: $87,000 - $139,000 USD
The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.
Benefits & Perks
Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative