Autonomy & Controls Lead

• BS, MS in Robotics, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline paired with 5+ years of hands-on experience building and shipping real-time control or autonomy software for physical robotic or aerospace systems.
• Expert proficiency in C/C++ and Python, with demonstrated expertise developing within embedded real-time flight environments.
• Deep theoretical mastery of control theory, including linear/non-linear control design, state estimation, dynamic programming, and 6-DOF aircraft/rotorcraft dynamics modeling.
• Proven track record with open-source autopilots, specifically building, modifying, and tuning PX4 or ArduPilot flight controllers.
• Hands-on expertise in sensor fusion pipelines, developing and deploying robust EKF-based state estimation algorithms.
• Extensive experience with simulation frameworks, including SIL and HIL validation workflows for safety-critical autonomous systems.
• Experience integrating autonomous systems into operational, test, or simulation environments

• Direct experience fielding GPS-denied navigation solutions on operational UAV platforms using VIO, lidar odometry, or optical flow.
• Demonstrated background developing safety-critical fail-safes, contingency management, and fault-tolerant control architectures for autonomous drones.
• Experience deploying modern robotic frameworks (ROS/ROS 2, DDS) on embedded Linux computing targets.

· Comply with all company information, security policies and procedures

· Ensure proper handling and protection of proprietary information

· Share information only on a need-to-know basis

· Adhere to company non-disclosure requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, and/or walk for extended periods
• Ability to use hands and fingers for manual dexterity and repetitive tasks
• Ability to bend, stoop, reach, push, pull, and lift as required by the position
• Ability to safely lift, carry, push, or pull objects within the requirements of the position
• Ability to perform the visual, auditory, and communication requirements necessary to perform the essential functions of the position
• Ability to work safely in the physical and environmental conditions applicable to the position

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive, and the employee may also be asked to perform other reasonably related job duties as assigned by their immediate supervisor as required.

All employees may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time as needed.

The AIRO Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

At AIRO, we bring together aircraft, autonomy, avionics, and mission services into one integrated platform designed for the environments where failure is not an option.

Our technology supports contested logistics, tactical and long-range ISTAR, and operations that demand precision under pressure, so the people who depend on it can get where they need to be when it matters most.

Here, you will work alongside innovators, engineers, operators, and industry leaders who share a passion for solving hard problems and building what comes next in aerospace and defense.

Join us and be part of something extraordinary.