Forterra is seeking a Software Lead to direct software development and integration efforts for cutting-edge defense autonomy programs within several of their Platform Verticals, to deliver high-performance ground autonomy solutions for complex, real-world environments.
Requirements
- Mastery of C++, ROS, real-time operating systems, Linux-based systems, and containerized/cloud-native tools (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes)
- Deep experience in robotics or autonomous systems, preferably within defense, aerospace, or safety-critical domains
- Familiarity with secure coding standards, cyber assurance processes, and DevSecOps workflows
- 5+ years of professional software engineering experience
- B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field
- Track record of delivering integrated software in fielded or experimental systems
Responsibilities
- Own software delivery as the software technical lead for major autonomy programs, accountable for platform software architecture and execution outcomes
- Lead planning, design, implementation, and verification of autonomy software across disciplines including perception, behavior generation, planning, controls, embedded systems, and infrastructure
- Develop and enforce real-time system architecture, interfaces, and integration strategies to meet mission and safety requirements
- Drive execution by aligning development with program milestones and delivery schedules, managing risk across complex defense autonomy programs
- Translate high-level requirements into actionable development plans and engineering artifacts
- Support safety-critical software engineering activities and work with safety engineering to ensure compliance with software safety engineering best practices
- Set clear technical direction, enforce best practices in coding, CI/CD, DevSecOps, and technical documentation
Other
- U.S. Citizenship required; active security clearance or ability to obtain one strongly preferred
- Travel: 20% - 30% including customer site visits, field testing, and in-office engineering collaboration
- B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field
- Candidates who can work on site at our Maryland facility
- Preferred past experience in a technical leadership role
