Flight Software Tools Engineer

Grid Aero

$150K — $190K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 2+ years of programming and engineering experience
  • Proficient in C++ (with POSIX API on Linux) or Python
  • Familiar with git and software workflow automation
  • Experience with build and test systems like Cmake, Bazel, or Buildkite
  • Background in robotics, mechatronics, or computer science with practical experience
  • Interest in autonomy, AI, or aviation; aviation experience is advantageous
  • Experience in an early-stage startup or adaptable to fast-paced environments

Responsibilities

  • Develop ground station and embedded onboard software
  • Own telemetry logging and analysis pipeline with real-time monitoring
  • Create automation tools for setup, build, and deployment
  • Establish and maintain a continuous integration system
  • Test and debug hardware/software in simulators and aircraft
  • Provide flight test support through regular travel to Merced, CA
  • Participate in product discussions and mentor on software best practices

Benefits

  • Engage with mission-critical national security issues
  • Receive significant equity stake
  • Influence company success through direct contributions
  • Lead the development of an innovative product
  • Grow with the company alongside experienced aerospace founders
Full Job Description
Role Overview:
We are seeking a Flight Software Tools Engineer to join our small but mighty team. In this role, you'll build software for the aircraft and ground station, and take ownership of tools and devops development. This is a chance to contribute from the ground up while working alongside experienced aerospace founders and some of the best minds in the space.

As an early hire, you'll help lay the foundation for the company's future growth, both technically and organizationally. You'll have full visibility into our mission, work closely with leadership, and be empowered to drive innovation. If you're excited about building something world-changing and want to play a critical role in shaping an early-stage company, this opportunity is for you.

What You'll Do:
  • Develop ground station and embedded onboard software.
  • Own the telemetry logging and analysis pipeline, including instrumentation frameworks, real-time monitoring, and large-scale post processing.
  • Develop tools to automate setup, build, and deployment for flight, ground and simulation platforms.
  • Establish and maintain a Continuous Integration system
  • Test and debug hardware and software in Hardware-in-the-loop simulators and on aircraft.
  • Travel to Merced, CA for flight test support expected on a regular basis.
  • Participate in cross-functional discussions about Grid's product and mentor teams on software standards and best practices.

Who You Are:
  • Mission-Driven: You're passionate about solving big, complex problems through technology and driven by the chance to change industries.
  • Innovator: You thrive on the challenge of working with cutting-edge technologies and pushing the boundaries of what's possible.
  • Builder: You enjoy the excitement and impact of working at an early-stage startup where your contributions directly shape the future.
  • Collaborative: You work well with diverse, cross-functional teams and are excited to lead, mentor, and inspire others.

Key Qualifications:
  • 2+ years experience in programming and engineering
  • Strong programming skills in C++ (POSIX API on Linux systems) or Python
  • Experience with git and basic software workflow automation
  • Experience configuring and rolling out build and test systems such as Cmake, Bazel, and Buildkite in a professional setting
  • Background in robotics, mechatronics, or computer science with hands-on experience
  • Interest in autonomy, AI, or aviation (aviation experience is a plus, but not required)
  • Embedded software and RTOS experience is a plus, but not required
  • Prior experience in an early-stage startup or adaptable to dynamic, fast-paced environments

Why Join Grid.aero:
  • Mission First: Tackle some of the most important national security issues of the day.
  • Ownership: Receive a significant equity stake and help build the future of Grid.aero.
  • Impact: As one of our first hires, you'll have a direct and visible impact on the success of the company.
  • Innovation: Lead the architecture of a game-changing product that will redefine the air logistics industry.
  • Growth: Work alongside experienced aerospace founders and grow with the company as a key technical leader.

Compensation: $150k -$190k / 0.1-0.3% Equity

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