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Salary: USD 116,000 - 167,000 / annual
Firestorm is a VC-backed defense technology company pioneering expeditionary manufacturing and distributed production capabilities for unmanned systems. The company focuses on equipping warfighters with mission-critical capabilities at the point of need through modular, mission-adaptable unmanned systems and components.
As a Senior Integrations Engineer, you will support the integration of advanced payloads into next-generation Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), working directly with customers at Department of Defense installations. You will specify, install, test, and troubleshoot custom physical and digital payloads in high-pressure environments.
Key Responsibilities:
- Integrate avionics, mission payloads, flight controllers, and embedded subsystems while meeting reliability, safety, and performance standards
- Configure, manage, and troubleshoot tactical and airborne networks, including RF links and embedded communications systems
- Diagnose and resolve electromechanical, avionics, and embedded software issues in lab and field environments
- Translate mission requirements into clear technical specifications
- Develop and maintain embedded and application-level software; write scripts and tools in Python, Bash, Shell, and C/C++ for automation, testing, and integration
- Create and execute test plans, validate performance, analyze results, and provide technical recommendations
- Partner with Technical Writers to develop documentation including integration guides, test reports, user manuals, and troubleshooting materials
- Collaborate across teams and use Firestorm's additive manufacturing and simulation tools to accelerate development
- Provide performance data and constructive feedback to hardware design and manufacturing teams
- Perform repair and rework on Firestorm's product line and third-party hardware systems
- Support preparation, configuration, and deployment of MECCS (Modular Electronic Command and Control Systems)
- Assemble and integrate custom or ad-hoc payloads based on mission and customer-specific needs
- Stay informed about latest technologies in avionics, embedded systems, tactical networking, and unmanned systems
Work Environment: This is a hybrid role based in Rome, NY, operating in standard office and manufacturing environments. The role involves exposure to loud noise, heat, cold, dust, or chemicals (with PPE), outdoor weather conditions, and non-climate-controlled environments. Frequent travel (up to 15%) may be required within a calendar year for field operations, integration events, customer support, and testing. Occasional weekend work may be needed to meet production or deployment timelines. Physical demands include ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly; manual dexterity to operate standard machine and office equipment; and physical capability to tolerate loud noise, heat, cold, dust, or chemicals with PPE. Must be able to lift up to 30 lbs and work in austere conditions.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Electrical, Systems, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
- At least 5 years of experience in systems integration, troubleshooting, and field operations
- U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations and ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance
- Strong networking knowledge, including configuration and troubleshooting of Ethernet, TCP/IP, VPNs, VLANs, and wireless systems
- Proficient with Linux (Ubuntu, CentOS, RedHat) and Windows systems, with strong command-line skills
- Programming and scripting experience in Python, Bash, Shell, and C/C++, including embedded software development
- Skilled in troubleshooting across avionics systems, embedded software, RF equipment, and integrated hardware stacks
- Familiarity with Software Defined Radios (SDRs), including configuration and performance tuning
- Experience with virtualization and container tools such as VMware, Docker, and Kubernetes
- Understanding of cybersecurity compliance requirements and best practices as they relate to embedded systems and tactical networks
- Strong technical writing skills for documenting systems, procedures, and troubleshooting steps
- Valid driver's license with a clean driving record to support offsite deployments
Preferred Qualifications:
- 7+ years of experience in systems integration, troubleshooting, and field operations
- Experience in high-tech, aerospace, or DoD-related manufacturing environments, including prior work in the military or with spacecraft or aircraft
- Experience delivering UAS systems to market in defense or commercial sectors
- Hands-on integration and testing of Electronic Warfare (EW) systems in operational environments
- Background in test planning, requirements traceability, and formal verification and validation
- Knowledge of military standards such as MIL-STD-810 for environmental compliance and MIL-STD-461 for EMI/EMC
- Proficiency with PX4 Autopilot, including system setup, parameter tuning, and diagnostics
- Familiarity with ROS or similar robotics middleware for autonomy and control systems
- Deep knowledge of cybersecurity concerns related to unmanned systems, RF networks, and embedded avionics
- Knowledge of FAA regulations and certification processes for unmanned aircraft systems
- Analytical mindset with ability to perform under pressure in fast-paced, mission-driven environments
