Senior UAS GNC Systems Engineer - 1503 bei Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA)

Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise with more than 35 years of proven innovation. We create new and emerging technology solutions in support of Commercial & Government organizations. As an employee-owned company, every team member has a personal stake in the success of our mission, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and innovation. We have expertise in RF, EMP, Pulsed Power, Acoustics and Threat Warning Systems, and we prioritize partnering with our customers to address real-world problems with cost-effective solutions… that work.

The SARA High Power Electromagnetics Division (HPEM) is looking for a remarkably talented, motivated, and imaginative Senior UAS/GNC Systems Engineer (Unmanned Aerial Systems - Guidance, Navigation, and Control). to support research and development activities and transition innovative technologies to the DoD, DoE, and their contractors in Colorado Springs, CO. The candidate will have the opportunity to grow and learn with talented engineers, physicists, and technicians on both long-standing programs and new initiatives, contributing in a multidisciplinary environment from concept through operation.

We are seeking a highly skilled engineer to spearhead the development of unmanned navigation and control technologies, with emphasis on flight controller integration, autonomous navigation, and AI-driven edge processing. This role involves developing and configuring flight control systems, integrating sensors, optimizing embedded software, and deploying AI models on embedded platforms. The ideal candidate will collaborate across hardware, software, and AI teams to advance the boundaries of autonomous aerial systems.

Core Responsibilities:

• Configure and integrate flight controllers (PX4, ArduPilot) with various UAV platforms such as CUBE
• Perform firmware flashing, parameter tuning (PID adjustments, motor mapping, ESC calibration), and sensor integration (GPS, IMU, LiDAR, magnetometer, barometer)
• Develop and optimize embedded software using C++, Python, ROS, and MAVLink for communication with Jetson-based AI/vision systems
• Implement computer vision and AI-based perception for real-time object tracking and SLAM, leveraging OpenCV, TensorFlow, PyTorch, and DeepStream
• Utilize CUDA programming to optimize neural network inference on Jetson platforms for efficient edge AI deployment
• Establish reliable networking and telemetry solutions, integrating MAVLink over Wi-Fi/LTE/5G for command/control and GStreamer/RTSP for FPV video streaming
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop mission planning and autonomous navigation capabilities using QGroundControl and Mission Planner
• Support remote control and monitoring solutions for UAV operations in field environments
• Build and lead a team focused on unmanned system navigation and control technology

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
• 5+ years of hands-on experience with flight controller integration and UAV software development
• Working environment is indoor, moderately quiet, reasonably clean, well-lighted and well-ventilated, moderate physical hazards may exist
• 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 light physical effort, involving standing, sitting and use of hands while performing duties, carrying or lifting up to 50 pounds
• Working environment is indoor, moderately quiet, reasonably clean, well-lighted and well-ventilated; moderate physical hazards may exist

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s Degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
• 16+ years of hands-on experience with flight controller integration and UAV software and hardware development
• Proficiency in Linux (Ubuntu)
• Background in real-time embedded systems and FPGA-based AI acceleration
• Familiarity with mission planning tools (QGroundControl, Mission Planner) and UAV test/validation procedures
• Hands-on experience with hardware debugging tools (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, protocol sniffers)
• Active DoD Top Secret Clearance

SARA offers a competitive benefits package to include:

• Medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance; and other supplemental programs
• A 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)

Pay Range

Salary at SARA is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual’s particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $125,000 to $200,000 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of SARA’s total compensation package for employees.  Positions are on-site, unless indicated otherwise.

Application Deadline: Sep 30, 2025

SARA is an equal employment opportunity employer.