Software Engineer – Autonomous Systems (USV / Motion Control)

Overview

We are looking for a skilled Software Engineer specializing in autonomous systems to enhance and develop autonomy software solutions for Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs). This includes transforming traditional crewed vessels into remotely controlled and autonomous platforms.

Key Responsibilities

• Craft and implement software architectures and control systems for USVs, managing vehicle control modules and integrating propulsion, steering, throttle, and auxiliary subsystems.
• Create guidance and navigation capabilities such as waypoint tracking, line-of-sight navigation, and collision avoidance with adherence to COLREGs maritime rules.
• Develop sensor fusion and state estimation algorithms utilizing methods like Extended Kalman Filter (EKF), Unscented Kalman Filter (UKF), or Particle Filtering.
• Integrate marine sensors and navigation equipment, including radar, AIS, cameras, LiDAR, alongside command and control (C2) systems.
• Design robust fail-safe and fault management protocols to handle communication interruptions, sensor or engine malfunctions, and remote emergency stops.
• Develop software spanning the full system stack—from embedded and actuator level controls to higher-level mission and navigation applications.
• Integrate marine devices using communication standards such as CAN Bus, NMEA 0183/2000.
• Provide support during system integration, commissioning activities, testing phases, and sea trials, working collaboratively with hardware, systems engineering, and product teams.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Robotics, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Computer Science, Mechatronics, or closely related field.
• Extensive programming skills in C++.
• Hands-on experience with autonomous control systems and embedded hardware platforms.
• Familiarity with autonomy software frameworks such as MOOS-IvP, ArduPilot/ArduRover, PX4, or similar environments.
• Experience working with real-time embedded control systems.
• Proven knowledge in software-in-the-loop (SITL), hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing, bench testing, system integration, and field deployments.
• Understanding of marine electronics communication protocols including CAN Bus and NMEA 0183/2000.
• Background with USV, Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUV), Autonomous Surface Vehicles (ASV), or converting manned vessels to unmanned platforms is highly relevant.
• Awareness of maritime regulations such as COLREGs and experience with simulation tools like MATLAB/Simulink, Gazebo, VRX, and integration with C2 systems is advantageous.
• Experience or interest in AI/ML, edge computing, or cloud technologies applied within autonomous system contexts is a plus.