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Autonomy Integration Engineer - Drone Stack

appliedFreeport, FLDefense
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Salary
$120K – $175K
Job type
Full-time
Experience
Senior · 5+ yrs
Posted
18 Sept 2026
Status
Open · checked 7d ago

About this role

This role suits an experienced robotics or flight test professional who thrives in a hands-on environment splitting time equally between the lab and the airfield. The Autonomy Integration Engineer position is located in Freeport, Florida, with alternative office locations available in Sunnyvale, California, and Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Role Overview

Applied Intuition is hiring an Autonomy Integration Engineer for the Drone Stack team in Freeport, FL. The position acts as the technical anchor bridging hardware, edge software, and field flight operations. Responsibilities span from initial benchtop configuration to live operational flight.

Key Responsibilities

Drive end-to-end hardware and software integration for unmanned aerial systems, moving platforms from benchtop prototyping to active flight test campaigns.
Manage, configure, and deploy software stacks using Docker images, shell scripts, and Linux system tools across onboard computes and peripheral hardware.
Troubleshoot vehicle networks, payload interfaces, and sensor links in real time using command-line tools and hardware diagnostics.
Develop Python and C++ scripts for data reduction, log analysis, system validation, and real-time subsystem verification.
Fabricate custom wiring harnesses, perform precision soldering, and define system-level architecture using clear block diagrams.
Configure IP routing, subnets, and local network interfaces between flight controllers, companion computers, radios, and ground control stations.

Requirements

Minimum of 5 years of experience in robotics integration, flight test engineering, embedded systems, or autonomous vehicles with an aerial background preferred.
Deep practical comfort with the Linux CLI, file management, system logging, local IP routing, subnets, and containerized deployments using Docker.
Proven hands-on skills in wiring, custom cable assembly, bench soldering, and physical diagnostics using oscilloscopes and multimeters.
Strong proficiency in Python, C++, or Shell scripting for automation, test suite creation, and processing flight data logs.
Direct experience working with serial and vehicle bus protocols including UART, CAN, Ethernet, SPI, and I2C.
Ability to lead major integration efforts independently and act as the technical link between software, GNC, and hardware teams.
Bachelor's degree in any field, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
Must be a U.S. citizen and hold or be eligible for a U.S. Secret security clearance.

Nice to Have

Active DoD Secret Security Clearance.
Deep experience with the MAVLink protocol and autopilot hardware like PX4 and ArduPilot.
Experience with Persistent Systems, Silvus, or similar tactical mesh radios.
FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and hands-on R/C flight experience.
Background working with defense tech platforms or flight ranges.

Skills and Tools

Linux CLI
Docker
Python
C++
Shell Scripting
UART, CAN, Ethernet, SPI, I2C
Oscilloscopes and Multimeters
MAVLink, PX4, ArduPilot

Salary and Benefits

Base salary ranging from $120K to $175K.
Equity offered in the form of options and/or restricted stock units.
Comprehensive health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance coverage.
401(k) retirement benefits with employer match.
Learning and wellness stipends, along with paid time off.

About the Company

Applied Intuition powers the future of physical AI by creating the digital infrastructure needed to bring intelligence to every moving machine on the planet. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Sunnyvale, California, the company services the automotive, defense, trucking, construction, mining, and agriculture industries. Top global automakers, the United States military, and its allies trust Applied Intuition solutions.

How to Apply

To apply for this position, please visit the official Applied Intuition careers page.

Skills and tech stack

LinuxDockerPythonC++ShellUARTCANEthernetSPII2CMAVLinkPX4ArduPilot

Questions candidates ask

What is the location of the Autonomy Integration Engineer role?

The position is primarily located in Freeport, Florida, with alternative options to be based at company offices in Sunnyvale, California, or Ann Arbor, Michigan.

What is the salary range and what benefits are included?

The base salary ranges from $120K to $175K, with added equity. Benefits include comprehensive health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, a 401(k) with employer match, learning and wellness stipends, and paid time off.

What are the citizenship and security clearance requirements?

Candidates must be U.S. citizens and must hold or be eligible for a U.S. Secret security clearance.

How much experience is required for this position?

Candidates must have 5+ years of experience in robotics integration, flight test engineering, embedded systems, or autonomous vehicles.

What is the work arrangement policy at Applied Intuition?

Applied Intuition is an in-office company where full-time employees are expected to primarily work from their designated office five days a week, with some schedule flexibility.

Ready to apply?

The application is on the official applied careers page.

Apply on company site