UAS GNC Systems Engineer

Scientific Applications & Research Associates (SARA), Inc.

. Develop and configure unmanned navigation and control technologies .

Posted 9/22/2026full-timeColorado Springs • Colorado • United StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $110,000 - $175,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in developing and configuring unmanned navigation and control technologies, with a strong focus on flight controller integration, AI perception, and real-time processing. Proficient in programming languages and tools essential for UAV software development and optimization.

Highest-signal resume keywords

UAV Software DevelopmentPX4 Flight Controller IntegrationNVIDIA Jetson AI AccelerationC++ ProgrammingReal-Time Processing

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

C++PythonROSMAVLinkPID TuningSensor CalibrationAI PerceptionSLAMDeepStream SDKCUDA

Soft Skills

Team LeadershipCollaboration

Tools & Technologies

PX4ArduPilotOpenCVTensorFlowJetsonGStreamerQGroundControlMission Planner

Certifications & Qualifications

DoD Security Clearance

Industry Keywords

UAVGNC ArchitecturesTelemetryWireless CommunicationReal-Time Embedded Systems

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

LinuxPythonPyTorchTensorflowC++

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Develop and configure unmanned navigation and control technologies
Configure and integrate PX4 and ArduPilot flight controllers with UAV platforms such as CUBE
Perform firmware flashing, PID parameter tuning, motor mapping, ESC calibration, and sensor integration
Develop and optimize embedded software using C++, Python, ROS, and MAVLink
Integrate Jetson-based AI and vision systems
Implement computer vision and AI-based perception for real-time object tracking and SLAM
Use OpenCV, TensorFlow, PyTorch, and DeepStream for AI perception
Optimize neural network inference on Jetson platforms using CUDA
Establish networking and telemetry solutions using MAVLink over Wi-Fi, LTE, and 5G
Implement GStreamer/RTSP FPV video streaming
Collaborate with cross-functional teams on mission planning and autonomous navigation using QGroundControl and Mission Planner
Support remote control and monitoring solutions for UAV field operations
Build and lead a team focused on unmanned system navigation and control technology
Contribute to multidisciplinary R&D programs from concept through operation and transition technologies to DoD, DoE, and contractors

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
5–7 years of hands-on experience with flight controller integration and UAV software development
Experience with NVIDIA Jetson AI acceleration, DeepStream SDK, and/or CUDA programming
Knowledge of AI-driven perception, SLAM, and real-time processing on Jetson platforms
Experience designing UAS GNC architectures in GPS unavailable environments
Strong proficiency in PX4, ArduPilot, MAVLink, ROS, C++, and Python
Experience with PID tuning, sensor calibration, and autonomous navigation algorithms
Understanding of wireless communication protocols, low-latency video streaming, and telemetry links
US Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance
May require moderate physical effort, including standing, sitting, use of hands, and carrying or lifting up to 50 pounds
Master’s Degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field preferred
10+ years of hands-on experience with flight controller integration and UAV software and hardware development preferred
Proficiency in Linux (Ubuntu) preferred
Background in real-time embedded systems and FPGA-based AI acceleration preferred
Familiarity with QGroundControl, Mission Planner, and UAV test/validation procedures preferred
Hands-on experience with oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and protocol sniffers preferred
Active DoD Top Secret Clearance preferred

Benefits

Comp & perks

Medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance
Other supplemental programs
Generous PTO program (vacation, sick, holiday)
Tuition & certification reimbursement
Flexible work schedules
Discretionary Employee bonuses
401(k) match/profit sharing
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)