Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in Georgia

Hendrick Technical Solutions is a dynamic and growing force within the defense industry. We are seeking a Software Engineer to contribute to the development of cutting-edge unmanned vehicles (UxVs) and next-generation electro-mechanical equipment.

This role operates within a fast-paced, mission-critical environment, focusing on challenging and impactful projects that directly enhance national security.

This Unmanned Vehicle Software Engineer will be part of a collaborative team, working to redefine the future of defense robotics. This unique environment combines the agility and innovation typical of a startup with the stability, proven culture, and established resources of Hendrick.

What You'll Do:

• Robotics Software Design & Development: Design, develop, and integrate production-quality, field-reliable software for our UxV platforms and robotic prototypes, from early concept through fielded capability.
• Software Development: Develop, implement, and optimize robotic control and autonomy software, primarily utilizing ROS2, Python, and C++.
• Hardware/Software Integration: Work hands-on with sensors, actuators, computer hardware, and end user devices to bring up and integrate systems. Confidently support electrical troubleshooting as needed to ensure reliable, field-ready performance.
• Subsystem Integration: Integrate adjacent robot components and subsystems - such as compute modules, BMS, chargers, related power/communications interfaces, - ensuring robust bring-up, reliable data exchange, and clean integration into the overall robotics software stack.
• Rapid Integration & Turnaround: Execute fast-turnaround integration projects - bringing up new capabilities quickly, iterating with urgency, and delivering dependable results under aggressive timelines.
• System Operations: Manage and maintain software repositories using Git, operate within a Linux development environment, and help establish disciplined development workflows (builds, testing, and release practices) that support reliable deployments.
• Problem Solving & Refinement: Apply a thorough approach to identify and solve complex technical challenges, continuously seeking ways to refine and improve products beyond initial specifications.
• Collaboration & Communication: Serve as a trusted partner within multidisciplinary teams, effectively communicating technical information, and producing high-quality, professional written work.
• Entrepreneurial Mindset: Embrace an entrepreneurial environment, demonstrating adaptability, calmness under pressure, and a willingness to commit to long work weeks, when necessary, balanced with flexibility for downtime. Understands the intersection of business development and engineering.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, robotics, electrical engineering, or a closely related technical field.
• 2-4 years of professional software engineering experience in a production environment (not solely personal projects), delivering reliable, maintainable code that will perform in the field. Experience in robotics, autonomy, or embedded/mechatronic products is preferred. Exceptional candidates with less experience will also be considered.
• Android & Edge Compute: Proficiency in Android development for robotics and various embedded computer solutions (e.g., Raspberry Pi, Jetson).
• Experienced in ROS2, Python, and C++ with a focus on building/debugging nodes and sensor/actuator integration. Experience with front-end development and operator interfaces for tele-op and unmanned system control.
• Experienced in augmenting workflow with AI coding tools to accelerate development cycles, improve product quality, and compress delivery timelines.
• Proficiency in sensor integration, including drivers, configuration/calibration, and using data reliably within a robotics software stack.
• Proven CAN bus experience: Ability to integrate, debug, and validate CAN-based devices and networks in a robotics environment.
• Proficiency in Git for version control and strong command of Linux operating systems. Hands-on experience with software quality practices (unit/integration testing, debugging, code review) and CI/CD workflows in a Linux environment.
• Highly independent performer, capable of defining technical roadmaps and managing personal deadlines from concept to delivery.
• Confident and articulate communicator for internal discussions and external presentations. Ability to represent Hendrick well in all interactions.
• Very thorough in approach, consistently finding ways to refine products.
• Genuinely interested in learning and contributing to defense robotics. Consistently produces high-quality, professional written work.
• Understanding of how startups/entrepreneurs operate, including dedication for long work weeks balanced with flexibility for downtime.
• A team player. Must work well with teammates shoulder-to-shoulder daily, collaborating and forming strong internal relationships. Leverages strong team culture to overcome obstacles and succeed. Demonstrates exceptional calmness under pressure.

Bonus Skills & Knowledge:

• Experience with robotics simulation and tooling (e.g., Gazebo/Ignition) and using simulation to accelerate development and testing.
• Strong understanding of networking concepts in a robotics context, including IP layers.
• Proven track record in developing robotic systems in a high-reliability industry.
• Tactical & unmanned systems experience, specifically ATAK (Android Team Awareness Kit), UGV/UAV autonomy, and custom operator interfaces.

This role subject to International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) requirements and as such, U.S. Citizen, Permanent Resident or U.S. Person Status Required.

Hendrick is an Equal Opportunity employer. Minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For more information regarding the EEOC, please visit https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights6.12ScreenRdr.pdf.