Forward Deployed Engineer

We are seeking a Forward Deployed Engineer to integrate, deploy, and improve our autonomous systems in real-world environments. You will work hands-on with software, networking, and hardware to ensure our autonomous surface vessels perform reliably in operational settings.

This role combines software development, field deployment, and problem-solving to deliver real mission impact. You will collaborate with Business Development and Program Management teams to scope events, integrations, and deliverables, and lead technical demonstrations domestically and abroad.

Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and integrate software and hardware solutions for custom payloads, missions, and system integrations.
• Lead technical demonstrations and field events, ensuring reliable operation of platforms and integrations.
• Collaborate with Business Development teams to define scope, deliverables, and customer requirements.
• Work closely with operators and end-users, gathering feedback to adapt systems to operational needs.
• Troubleshoot and resolve software, hardware, and networking issues during deployments.
• Partner with engineering, product, and customer success teams to enhance capabilities and ensure mission success.
• Document best practices, deployment procedures, and debugging workflows to improve scalability and reliability.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, or Computer Science (or equivalent experience).
• 5+ years of experience developing autonomy or robotics systems.
• Strong software engineering skills (C++, Rust, Python, or similar).
• Experience working in a Linux-based operating system.
• Hands-on expertise in: Mechanical assembly & fabrication (CNC, sheet metal, 3D printing), Electrical integration (power systems, cabling, connectors, PCB bring-up), Rapid prototyping and system-level debugging.
• Proficiency with CAD (SolidWorks, NX, or similar), Linux systems, and electrical test equipment (multimeters, oscilloscopes).
• Experience with sensors (cameras, radar, GPS, IMUs), particularly for perception-driven autonomy.
• Strong problem-solving skills in fast-paced, dynamic environments.
• Experience in systems integration, testing, and customer-facing field support.
• Ability to communicate technical concepts clearly to non-technical stakeholders.
• Flexibility to travel domestically and internationally (50%+), including throughout the Indo-Pacific and to headquarters in Austin, TX.
• Eligible to hold an Australian Government Security Clearance (NV1 or higher).

Physical Demands:

• Ability to perform physically demanding work for extended periods of time, up to 12 hours/day
• Frequently and repetitively, lift, push and carry up to 18 kgs
• The ability to carry 18 kgs lbs. up and down stairs
• Ability to work outside for an extended period of time
• Frequently and repetitively, bend, lift and reach to install vehicle parts of varying size and weight overhead, accurately and in allotted timeframes
• Ability to stand and walk for up to 12 hours/day, including over varied and uneven terrain
• Stoop, lay, bend, reach, squat, kneel, crouch, twist and crawl for extended periods of time, including up to 12 hours/day
• Climb and maintain balance on ladders, platforms, or other high structures
• Ability to find issues in a work process and be alert to safety signals using sight, touch, and hearing
• Demonstrated ability to handle and manipulate tooling and mechanically fasten bolts within required cycle time
• Exposures to hazardous materials and ability to follow waste handling/disposal procedures
• Wearing Personal Protective Equipment, including but not limited to safety glasses, safety shoes, hearing protection, gloves and adhering to prescribed safety rules and guidelines

Benefits:

• Stock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company’s success
• Competitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonuses
• Medical Insurance: Comprehensive private health insurance
• Time Off: Generous PTO and Holidays
• Parental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parents