Senior Embedded Linux Developer (UAV Control Systems)

Position

Experience Level:

Location

Department

Job Type

We are seeking a highly skilled Embedded Linux Developer with a strong background in  developing real-time control software for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). The candidate  will be responsible for designing, developing, testing, and optimizing embedded systems  that interface with flight control hardware and support mission-critical UAV operations. 

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, port, and maintain embedded Linux distributions (Yocto, Buildroot, or  similar) for UAV avionics and companion computers. 

• Implement and optimize real-time control applications interfacing with flight  controllers (e.g. PX4, ArduPilot) via MAVLink or other protocols. 

• Integrate sensor drivers (IMU, GPS, barometer, cameras) into Linux kernel space or  user space as required. 

• Develop and debug kernel modules and device trees for custom UAV hardware.

• Implement inter-process communication (IPC) and middleware between control  software, mission planning systems, and onboard payloads. 

• Collaborate with control systems engineers to translate flight algorithms (PID, LQR,  MPC) into deployable embedded code. 

• Support UAV system-level bring-up, including bootloader (U-Boot), firmware flashing,  and diagnostics. 

• Work with DevOps teams to streamline cross-compilation, CI/CD pipelines, and over the-air (OTA) updates. 

• Write unit tests, conduct software-in-the-loop (SITL) and hardware-in-the-loop (HITL)  testing. 

• Ensure compliance with aerospace software standards (e.g. DO-178C, MISRA) and  cybersecurity best practices 

Required Skills:

• Strong experience in embedded Linux development (Yocto/Buildroot).

• Kernel customization, device drivers, and BSP development. 

• Familiarity with ARM-based SoCs (NXP, STM32MP, NVIDIA Jetson, Raspberry Pi, etc.).

• Proficiency in C/C++ and shell scripting. 

• Experience with Python (for scripting, tools, or automation). 

• Knowledge of UAV control systems, flight dynamics, and navigation.

• Experience with PX4 or ArduPilot and MAVLink communication. 

• Understanding of control algorithms like PID, LQR, or Model Predictive Control (MPC).

• Familiarity with ROS/ROS2 for robotic middleware integration.

• Proficient in Git, CMake, and cross-compilation toolchains. 

• Experience with SITL/HITL setups, debugging via JTAG/serial/UART.

• Familiarity with CAN, I2C, SPI, UART protocols. 

• Good understanding of UAV mission planning, telemetry, and GCS interaction.

• Ability to read and understand schematics and hardware documentation. 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electronics, Computer Engineering, Aerospace, or  related fields. 

• Prior experience with real-world UAV deployments or UAV product development  lifecycle. 

• Exposure to secure boot, OTA firmware, and secure communication protocols.

• Knowledge of simulation tools like Gazebo or MATLAB Simulink.