Senior Robotics Engineer - Swarm
Firestorm
San Diego, CA, USA
USD 125k-175k / year
Posted on May 30, 2025
Senior Robotics Engineer - Swarm
San Diego, CA
Engineering
In office
Full-time
Who We Are
At Firestorm, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower U.S. ally nations to effectively deter aggressors—regardless of their defense budget—through innovative, cost-efficient technologies. We call this vision “democratized deterrence.” As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we’re pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators. By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we’re pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world-class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all at a fraction of the cost.
About the Role
As a Senior Robotics Engineer on our swarm robotics team, you will play a critical role in shaping the future of autonomous aerial vehicle systems. You’ll design, develop, and optimize advanced algorithms that enable multi-aircraft coordination, real-time perception, and dynamic path planning. Your expertise in multi-robot communication systems and proven track record with multi-aircraft control algorithms will be essential. Working closely with cross-functional teams, you’ll communicate complex technical concepts clearly and effectively to diverse audiences. This role demands a self-motivated, mission-driven individual who thrives in a collaborative environment and embraces iterative feedback through design reviews.
What You’ll Do
- Develop and optimize real-time algorithms for perception, localization, and path planning
- Research and prototype multi-aircraft control algorithms, focusing on communication and coordination across platforms
- Build and maintain simulation environments for autonomy testing
- Collaborate with engineering teams to integrate robotics solutions into flight platforms
- Participate actively in design reviews, providing and receiving constructive feedback to improve solutions
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) discipline
- 4+ years of professional experience in robotics engineering
- Demonstrated hands-on experience in robotics, controls, or dynamics
- Proficiency in C++, Python, and Matlab/Octave
- Strong communication and documentation skills, capable of conveying complex technical details to diverse audiences
- U.S. Citizenship required
- This is an onsite role based in San Diego, CA
- Willingness to travel approximately 1 week per month to support flight testing and demonstrations (travel expenses covered)
Preferred Qualifications
- Ph.D. in STEM or related field
- Experience with flying platforms using PX4 or Arduplane codebases integrated with ROS
- Familiarity with Agile development processes
- High proficiency in C, C++, Python, and Matlab/Octave
- Experience flying RC fixed-wing aircraft
- Demonstrated experience developing multi-robot communication systems and control algorithms
Work Environment
This role is onsite at our San Diego headquarters.
Compensation
US Salary Range: $125,000 - $175,000 USD
The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.
Benefits & Perks
Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:
- We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
- 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
- Unlimited PTO
- Generous Parental Leave
- FSA
- HSA
- Hospital Indemnity insurance
- Critical Illness insurance
- Accident insurance
- Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
- Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.
ITAR Compliance
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.
Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com so we can provide the support you need.
Req ID: R27