Develop and implement computer vision and robotics algorithms for autonomous flight, focusing on landing zone evaluation and detection systems while collaborating with planning teams.
At Skyways, we are building the future of air transportation with fully autonomous unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Backed by significant funding, including a $37M STRATFI contract from the U.S. Air Force, we operate at the intersection of commercial and defense markets. We have designed, built, and flown aircraft with real customers and government partners, and are now entering the next phase of the company: scaling toward production.
Based in Austin, TX and supported by top investors including Y Combinator, Skyways blends rapid iteration with real world deployment. We design, test, and operate our systems in the field, then bring those learnings directly back into engineering and product decisions. As we grow, we are looking for builders and leaders who want real ownership, technical depth, and the opportunity to help take an aircraft from successful deployments to full production.
The Opportunity
At Skyways, we're pushing the boundaries of autonomous aerial platforms. This isn't just another engineering role; it's a critical position for a Senior Software Engineer with deep expertise in computer vision and robotics. We need someone who can directly contribute to our core technology and help drive our growth and revenue.
What You'll Do:
- Develop and implement computer vision and robotics algorithms for autonomous flight.
- Focus on landing zone evaluation and detect-and-avoid systems.
- Work with sensor data (e.g., IMUs) for non-GPS navigation.
- Collaborate with flight and mission planning teams.
- Contribute across the full software development lifecycle.
What You'll Bring:
- 5+ years of experience in developing, testing, and deploying algorithms for perception, navigation, or object interaction in real-world applications.
- Strong proficiency in C++ and/or Python.
- A solid understanding of sensor fusion principles and practical experience with diverse sensor types.
- Prior experience in aerospace, autonomous vehicles, or drone technology.
- We need a proactive problem-solver who thrives in a collaborative environment and is committed to continuous learning and improvement. Strong communication skills are key.
Bonus Points If You Have:
- Experience with embedded systems or real-time operating systems.
- A background in guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) systems.
- Familiarity with DevSecOps principles as they apply to robotics software deployment.
Want to join our mission? Apply to learn more!
Due to U.S. government contract requirements, this role is limited to U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents, or candidates from specific countries authorized under applicable export control regulations.
Skyways is an Equal Opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other factor protected by applicable local, state or federal laws.
Top Skills
C++
Devsecops
Embedded Systems
Imus
Python
Real-Time Operating Systems
Skyways Austin, Texas, USA Office
Austin, Texas, United States
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