Software Engineer IV (UAV Embedded)

Software Engineer IV (UAV Embedded)

Job Tracking ID :

85347-368188

Job Level :

Mid Career (2+ years)

Level of Education :

BA/BS

Job Type :

Full-Time/Regular

Date Updated :

04/09/2026

Radford Job Code :

EN.SODE.P4

Travel Requirement :

Domestic

Compensation :

$160,000 - $225,000

Capabilities :

Unmanned Systems

Salary :

$160,000 USD Annually - $225,000 USD Annually

Years Of Experience :

11+ Job Description Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting-edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost-effective solutions to market. Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems (KUAS), a division of Kratos Defense, is renowned for its expertise in developing, delivering, integrating, and supporting high-performance, cost-effective, jet-powered Unmanned Aerial Systems (Targets and Tactical). As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the US military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top-notch jet-powered subscale targets has established us as a go-to defense contractor capable of delivering capabilities at an affordable price. At KUAS, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team collaborates to cultivate a supportive and dynamic workplace, fostering creativity and promoting professional development while honoring personal and family lives. Join our team and help shape the future of unmanned technology within the defense industry today!

ABOUT THE JOB

As an Embedded Software Engineer, you will architect and implement mission-critical software for our next-generation UAV flight computers. You will be the primary link between complex flight algorithms and custom avionics hardware, developing high-performance C and C++ applications that ensure deterministic control and absolute system reliability. Working at the intersection of hardware and software, you will collaborate with electrical and GNC (Guidance, Navigation, and Control) engineers to design and implement complex physical-digital interactions with MATLAB/Simulink.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

Designs, develops, and tests C++ flight software and hardware, sensor, and actuator integrations. Analyzes and decomposes system requirements collaboratively with other engineering disciplines. Writes software requirements specifications, software test descriptions, design descriptions, and test reports Designs, implements, tests, and documents software according to KUAS specifications Hybrid, work from office T/W/Th in Roseville, CA (Full remote considered for highly qualified candidate)

Compensation:

$160,000 - $225,000

Experience and Skills Required Experience:

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Requires BS degree in Computing Science, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or other technical discipline, or 15 YOE in lieu of BS degree.
• 10 years of C or C++ programming experience
• Demonstrated understanding of Object-Oriented programming principles and RTOS systems.
• Demonstrated understanding of software development life-cycle and clearly document software requirements.
• Hands on ability to troubleshoot hardware-in-the-loop simulation modelling and make firmware updates

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Skills with tools such as Atlassian, MATLAB/Simulink, VxWorks, LabView
• Skills implementing interface controls based on MBSE design documentation
• Previous familiarity with

OMS/UCI, A-GRA, STANAG

4586, DO-178C, AS9100, DoDI 8500.01 WORK

ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Office and or manufacturing environment.
• Ability to stand and sit for long periods of time.
• Ability to perform repetitive motion (keyboarding, 10-key, phones).
• May work extended hours or weekends.
• May be required to lift up to 50 pounds in accordance with KUAS General Safety Training guidelines.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

• 5-10% May be required between other KUAS locations.

Job Benefits Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Coverage Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance 401(k) Savings Plan Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) Paid Time-Off (PTO) Holidays Education Reimbursement Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws. Disability Accessibility Accommodation If you require an accommodation to navigate or apply to our careers site, please send your request to HRAccessibility@kratosdefense.com or call 858-964-2916. Any inquires not related to requesting an accommodation will be discarded. Pay Transparency The company will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant.