Senior Autonomy Engineer

Senior Autonomy Engineer (AI) – NODA AILocation: Austin, TX (Hybrid on-site, with up to 20% travel)Clearance Requirement: U.S. Citizen with the ability to obtain a security clearance About NODANODA is a veteran-owned, venture-backed technology company that is transforming how unmanned systems collaborate in complex, mission-critical environments. We are developing next-generation solutions that enable the autonomous orchestration of heterogeneous unmanned systems across air, sea, land, and space with vital applications in the defense, intelligence, and commercial sectors.We are building the autonomy layers that allow systems from multiple domains to operate in synchronized, adaptive, and resilient ways. Our autonomy engineers bridge the gap between high-level AI-driven mission intent and real-world execution across UAVs, USVs, and UUVs operating in contested and dynamic environments.Joining NODA means working on meaningful technology that pushes the boundaries of autonomy alongside a team that thrives on innovation, rapid iteration, and collaboration.The RoleWe are seeking a Senior Autonomy Engineer to design and implement the autonomy stack that powers adaptive multi-vehicle orchestration. This role focuses on mission planning, path generation, behavior execution, and task allocation across heterogeneous <fleets.You> will work at the intersection of AI reasoning frameworks, event-driven autonomy stacks (e.g., Zenoh, MQTT), and distributed multi-agent systems, ensuring mission intent can be reliably executed and adapted in real-world conditions. Success in this role requires strong technical foundations in robotics, practical systems thinking, and a passion for delivering robust autonomy where reliability is non-negotiable.Key ResponsibilitiesDesign and implement autonomy modules including path planning, task allocation, behavior trees, and reactive execution modelsDevelop and maintain the autonomy framework that integrates with orchestration (AI-driven mission planning) and world modelingEnsure AI-generated plans are executable, explainable, and safe across multi-domain robotic platformsImplement and validate navigation, control, and autonomy behaviors for UAVs, USVs, and UUVs using event-driven middleware (Zenoh, MQTT, or similar) and simulation environmentsProfile and optimize autonomy performance for edge compute hardware (Jetson, Raspberry Pi-class devices)Conduct simulation-in-loop and hardware-in-loop testing to validate autonomy behaviors before live field deploymentContribute to safety, reliability, and compliance practices for autonomy in defense-relevant missionsCollaborate across AI, networking, and systems engineering teams to ensure seamless orchestration of multi-vehicle operationsRequired Qualifications6+ years experience developing autonomy or robotics systemsProficiency in C++ and Python for real-time autonomy developmentStrong hands-on experience with event-driven/pub-sub middleware (Zenoh, MQTT, DDS, or similar)Background in motion planning, navigation, and control systemsExperience with state estimation, sensor fusion, and autonomy validationFamiliarity with behavior trees, task allocation, or symbolic plannersKnowledge of simulation environments (Gazebo, Isaac Sim, AirSim, or equivalent)U.S. Citizenship with ability to obtain a clearancePreferred QualificationsProficiency in Rust for systems-level/real-time autonomy developmentExperience with multi-agent coordination and swarm roboticsExposure to autonomous vehicle domains (UAVs, UUVs, USVs)Familiarity with MAVLink, JAUS, or STANAG 4586 protocolsBackground in AI planning, reinforcement learning, or constraint solversExperience optimizing autonomy for embedded/real-time performancePrior exposure to defense or aerospace autonomy systemsContributions to open-source robotics or autonomy projectsSkills & AttributesSystems thinker: able to connect autonomy layers with AI reasoning and orchestration.Strong problem-solving and debugging skills in both simulation and field environments.Cross-disciplinary collaborator, comfortable working with AI, networking, and data engineering teams.Thrives in ambiguous, mission-driven problem spaces.Detail-oriented and safety-focused, with commitment to reliable autonomy in critical missions. Benefits & PerksOur culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals + Company matchEquity grants for new hiresUnlimited PTO11 Paid holidaysExtremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November, & December.Generous Parental LeaveMilitary Leave for annual training or service requirementsFSADCFSAHSAProfessional Development OpportunitiesAccess to One MedicalMental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well. Growth Path at NODASenior Autonomy Engineer – lead development of autonomy modules and mentor engineers.Staff/Principal Engineer – drive cross-domain autonomy integration, standards, and frameworks.Autonomy Lead – own the autonomy stack and guide integration with AI-driven orchestration at scale.Export Control ComplianceTo conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.Equal Opportunity StatementNODA AI is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace and to maintaining equitable employment and hiring practices. We provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees and make all employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. As a federal contractor, NODA AI complies with all applicable equal employment opportunity and affirmative action requirements, including Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974 (VEVRAA), as amended. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified applicants and employees with disabilities throughout the recruiting, hiring, and employment process. Consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, qualified applicants with criminal histories will be considered for employment in a manner consistent with applicable fair chance and ban-the-box laws, including the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance where applicable. We actively encourage qualified individuals of all backgrounds, including women, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities, to apply. NODA AI is committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and accessible work environment for all applicants and employees. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at <[email hidden]> or contact your recruiter so we can provide the support you need.#LI-FL1