Forward Deployed Software Engineer

Role overview

Work directly with military, security, and commercial users to understand operational problems and deliver integrated software and hardware solutions. The role combines field engineering, rapid prototyping, systems integration, and feedback to product teams. Deployments may take place in demanding or disconnected environments, with travel that can include field locations.

Responsibilities

- Embed with users to identify needs and develop tailored technical solutions. - Build and test early-stage prototypes, then work with engineering teams to turn validated capabilities into maintainable products. - Bring user feedback and performance evidence back to internal teams to inform development priorities. - Integrate software with adjacent operational platforms through APIs, adapters, and plugins. - Set up and sustain edge computing, network, and uncrewed aircraft systems in challenging deployment conditions. - Advise users on technical capabilities and guide multidisciplinary teams that may include government and commercial partners.

Requirements

- At least five years of experience in defense or dual-use technology, ideally in forward-deployed or special operations settings. - An active U.S. TS/SCI clearance. - Experience leading research and development that combines autonomy, data engineering, cloud computing, and operational hardware. - Strong programming skills in Python, Go, C++, and systems-level development for edge hardware. - Experience designing and integrating REST and gRPC APIs, including custom connections to third-party platforms. - Familiarity with defense operations and secure technology deployments in sensitive or constrained settings. - Clear communication skills and the ability to represent user needs, explain technical choices, and build agreement across stakeholders. - Willingness to travel globally up to 20%, including to field and conflict-adjacent locations.

Nice to have

- Familiarity with uncrewed aircraft, machine learning operations, hybrid cloud and edge computing, or high-trust technology deployments.

Benefits and work setup

- Compensation includes salary and equity. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, parental leave, flexible paid time off, and a home-office stipend.