Robinson Unmanned (formerly Ascent AeroSystems) is the uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) business unit of Robinson Helicopter Company. Focused on designing and manufacturing all-weather, high-performance UAS from 249g to 1,500 pounds, Robinson Unmanned combines modular open system architecture, advanced autonomy technologies, and robust, full-scale manufacturing expertise to deliver scalable, aerospace-grade, unmanned VTOL capabilities across mission-critical industrial, civil and defense markets, all while reducing human risk and increasing operational efficiencies.

As you consider your next career move…

• Do you want to develop mission-critical software for aerial robotics used in real-world operations?
• Are you excited by challenges that span embedded systems, ground control stations, and cloud-connected mobile apps?
• Do you thrive in environments where your work directly impacts system-level autonomy, performance, and safety?
• Are you looking to be part of a focused team advancing the future of UAV systems?

If this describes you, please read on!

We’re seeking a versatile Software Engineer – UAV Systems to contribute across flight software, networking, and application development. This is a full-time position based in Wilmington, Massachusetts. Some domestic and international travel may be required.

This is a critical role for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, technical environment and is energized by building systems that work.

What You’ll Do

• Customize and extend ground control station software to support new mission capabilities and hardware integrations.
• Develop embedded software and integrate sensor payloads on onboard computers and microcontrollers.
• Design, implement, and troubleshoot communication pathways including telemetry, command/control, and video streaming.
• Build and maintain cross-platform mobile applications that interact with UAV systems in real-time.
• Work with drone communication protocols and networking stacks, including over cellular and VPN-based architectures.
• Participate in integration, field testing, and validation of hardware/software components.
• Contribute to system diagnostics, logging, documentation, and production test tooling.

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer science, software engineering, robotics engineering, or related technical field.
• 3+ years of post-graduate experience in a software engineering role.
• Strong proficiency in C++ and Python.
• Experience with embedded systems, hardware integration, and system-level debugging.
• Comfortable working with Docker and in Linux-based development environments.
• Familiarity with drone communication protocols and telemetry/control frameworks.
• Understanding of IP networking, VPNs, NAT traversal, and cellular connectivity.
• Basic experience with real-time video streaming technologies.
• Experience building and maintaining mobile applications across platforms.
• Demonstrated experience working on or maintaining mission-critical software.
• Experience with ground control station customization or development.
• Familiarity with open-source drone platforms and robotics frameworks (Mavlink, ROS, Ardupilot, PX4, QGroiundcontrol, etc.).
• FAA Part 107 certification.
• Experience with AGILE software development. Experience working with or setting up CI/CD pipelines for automated building/releasing (Jenkins, GH Actions, etc.) and remotely pushing well-documented updates.
• Must be authorized to work in the US without sponsorship.

COMPANY OVERVIEW

Robinson Unmanned (formerly Ascent AeroSystems) designs and manufactures rugged “coaxial” UAS for the industrial, public safety and defense markets. Robinson Unmanned supports frontline soldiers, first responders, and industrial professionals with the rugged and versatile unmanned aerial systems they need to complete critical missions when it matters most. Robinson Unmanned is founded on core principles of an innovative, determined, fearless, curious, and committed culture that fosters invention, problem solving and teamwork. Robinson Unmanned offers the ability to work at the leading edge of aerospace technology while benefitting from the experience and resources of one of the most respected names in aviation. For the right candidate, Robinson Unmanned offers a competitive salary, benefits (including health, dental and vision), 401(k), a terrific work environment, and the opportunity to be a part of one of the most exciting segments of the tech industry.

Robinson Unmanned is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Featured benefits

Medical insurance, Vision insurance, Dental insurance, 401(k)

Requirements added by the job poster

• Commute to this job’s location

• Authorized to work in the United States

• No need for visa sponsorship

Apply here