Software Engineer at Pyka | Alameda HQ

About PykaAt Pyka, we are committed to transforming transportation through innovative, safe, clean, and cost-effective autonomous electric aviation solutions.Our approach is unique; we leverage our advanced technologies across various industries where autonomous electric aircraft can be beneficial, starting with the most critical and hazardous applications. Our mission is to create groundbreaking products that can be manufactured at scale while enhancing the safety, reliability, and performance of our autonomy engine and electric propulsion systems.We engineer and produce an array of technologies, including proprietary flight control software, avionics, high-density motors, motor controllers, batteries, and custom carbon-fiber composite airframes.Currently, we provide autonomous electric aircraft for cargo transportation and crop protection to clients on four continents and have secured pioneering regulatory approvals from the FAA. Our cargo aircraft enhances connectivity and optimizes express delivery networks, ensuring timely and efficient shipping of essential supplies. Additionally, our crop protection aircraft empowers agricultural professionals and farmers with autonomous tools for safer and more precise aerial applications, significantly reducing environmental impact and operational costs.Join us in making a significant impact on people’s lives and pushing the boundaries of electric aviation further each day.

Pyka designs and builds autonomous electric aircraft for cargo transport and crop protection. The team creates proprietary flight control software, advanced avionics, high power density motors, custom batteries, and carbon-fiber airframes. With a presence on four continents and historic FAA approvals, Pyka’s technology strengthens supply chains and enables safer, more precise aerial application for farmers, while reducing environmental impact and CO2 emissions. Role overview This Embedded Software Engineer position is based at Pyka’s Alameda headquarters. The focus is on low-level systems that power autonomous aircraft, including embedded software for flight computers and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing systems. The work directly supports the safety and reliability of every flight. What you will do Develop firmware for real-time systems used in autonomous aircraft Participate in hardware bring-up and integration with avionics and flight control systems Build and maintain test systems, including HIL setups Take ownership of critical software components Collaborate closely with electrical, avionics, systems, and flight control engineers Who thrives here Engineers with experience in embedded systems for robotics, vehicles, or other real-time applications Those who value curiosity and enjoy taking on new technical challenges Candidates who may not meet every requirement but are eager to learn and contribute

About PykaAt Pyka, we are on a mission to revolutionize transportation by offering safe, clean, and cost-effective solutions through autonomous electric aircraft.Our unique approach applies advanced technologies across various industries where autonomous electric aircraft can make a significant impact, prioritizing the most critical and hazardous tasks. By doing so, we are producing groundbreaking products at scale while continuously enhancing the safety, reliability, and performance of our autonomy engine and electric propulsion systems.We specialize in designing, developing, and manufacturing a comprehensive ecosystem of technologies, including proprietary flight control software, sophisticated avionics, high-density motors, advanced motor controllers, state-of-the-art batteries, and custom carbon-fiber composite airframes.Currently, our autonomous electric aircraft are utilized for cargo transport and crop protection in diverse regions across four continents, and we have achieved unprecedented regulatory approvals from the FAA. Our cargo aircraft enhance connectivity, streamline delivery networks, and ensure reliable shipping of essential supplies. Our crop protection solutions provide agricultural professionals and farmers with an autonomous tool for safer, more precise aerial applications that minimize environmental impact. Both aircraft types are designed for economic efficiency, ease of deployment, and significant reductions in CO2 emissions.Working at Pyka means contributing to innovations that improve lives today while paving the way for the future of electric aviation.Role OverviewWe are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Global Supply Manager to spearhead procurement, sourcing, and supplier management within our global supply chain operations. This role is crucial as we expand, and you will help build a resilient and scalable supply chain that supports the production of our autonomous electric aircraft.You will utilize your expertise with global contract manufacturers to source high-quality components, negotiate favorable terms, and contribute to strategic growth initiatives for the Pyka supply chain. Collaboration with engineering, production, and quality assurance teams will be vital to ensuring timely delivery of materials that meet our high standards and further our mission.

About PykaAt Pyka, we are dedicated to revolutionizing transportation through autonomous electric aviation, creating a safer, cleaner, and more cost-effective means of transport.Our innovative approach targets industries where autonomous electric aircraft can make a significant impact, focusing first on the most critical and hazardous sectors. We are committed to developing groundbreaking products that are manufactured at scale, while continuously enhancing the safety, reliability, and performance of our autonomy engine and electric propulsion systems.Our technology ecosystem encompasses proprietary flight control software, advanced avionics, high power density motors, sophisticated motor controllers, batteries, and custom carbon-fiber composite airframes.Currently, we provide autonomous electric aircraft for cargo transport and crop protection to customers across four continents, having achieved industry-leading regulatory approvals from the FAA. Our cargo aircraft enhance connectivity and expedite delivery networks, ensuring swift shipment of essential supplies. Additionally, our crop protection solutions empower agricultural service providers with autonomous tools that promote safer, more accurate aerial applications while minimizing environmental impact. Both aircraft are designed for economic efficiency and ease of deployment, significantly reducing CO2 emissions in their respective fields.The work you do at Pyka will profoundly improve lives today while propelling us toward the future of electric aviation.Role OverviewWe are seeking a Senior Embedded Software Engineer who possesses a strong technical curiosity and a fervor for developing the low-level systems that drive autonomous aircraft. In this pivotal role, you will design and maintain the embedded software for our flight computers, auxiliary hardware, and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing systems—critical components that ensure the safe and reliable operation of our aircraft in real-world scenarios. Collaboration with electrical, avionics, systems, and flight control engineers will be essential as you bring new hardware online, develop robust firmware architectures, and enhance our automated HIL testing capabilities. If your experience includes building embedded systems for robotics, vehicles, or similar real-time applications, you will thrive in contributing to the foundational technology that underpins all Pyka aircraft.

About PykaAt Pyka, we are pioneering a new era of safe, clean, and cost-effective transportation through autonomous electric aviation technology.Our innovative approach sets us apart as we leverage cutting-edge technology across industries where autonomous electric aircraft can provide immense value, beginning with the most critical and hazardous tasks. We are dedicated to creating transformative products manufactured at scale, while enhancing the safety and reliability of our autonomy engine and electric propulsion systems.Our team designs, develops, and manufactures a comprehensive suite of technologies, including proprietary flight control software, advanced avionics, high power density motors, motor controllers, batteries, and custom carbon-fiber composite airframes.Currently, we provide autonomous electric aircraft for cargo transport and crop protection, serving clients across four continents and achieving industry-first regulatory approvals from the FAA. Our cargo aircraft enhances connectivity and ensures rapid delivery of essential supplies, while our crop protection aircraft offers farmers a safer and more precise autonomous application tool, significantly reducing environmental impact. Both solutions are designed for economic efficiency and ease of deployment, achieving a substantial reduction in CO2 emissions.Join Pyka, where your work will improve lives today and help usher in the future of electric aviation.Role OverviewWe are seeking an enthusiastic Electrical Engineer to become part of our dynamic team. You will engage in both system-level and component-level design and testing across various subsystems.Your responsibilities will evolve as you contribute to diverse hardware projects, which may include:Developing a dual-computer flight system with redundant power distribution for actuators and avionics.Designing high power density motor controllers (30kW - 100kW).Creating battery management systems and contact controllers for redundant battery systems.Implementing air data boards.Engineering electronics for spray systems.Designing various PCBs to facilitate the testing of the aforementioned hardware.We welcome candidates who thrive in a fast-paced environment and are eager to take on new challenges.

About PykaAt Pyka, we are on a mission to revolutionize transportation by developing safe, eco-friendly, and cost-efficient autonomous electric aviation solutions.Our unique approach allows us to apply our innovative technologies across various industries, focusing initially on the most valuable and hazardous tasks. This strategy enables us to create groundbreaking products that are manufactured at scale, consistently enhancing the safety, reliability, and capabilities of our autonomous systems and electric propulsion technologies.We specialize in designing, developing, and manufacturing a comprehensive ecosystem of advanced technologies, including proprietary flight control software, avionics, high-density motors, motor controllers, batteries, and custom carbon-fiber composite airframes.Currently, we provide autonomous electric aircraft for cargo transport and crop protection to customers on four continents and have achieved industry-first regulatory approvals from the FAA. Our cargo aircraft enhances connectivity and efficiency in express delivery networks, while our crop protection aircraft offers a safer and more precise solution for agricultural services, significantly reducing environmental impact. Both aircraft types are economical and easy to deploy, resulting in lower CO2 emissions in their respective fields.Your contributions at Pyka will enhance lives today and advance the future of electric aviation.Role OverviewWe are seeking an exceptionally talented Senior Mechanical Engineer to join our dynamic cargo aircraft team. In this pivotal role, you will spearhead the mechanical design and integration of crucial aircraft components. Your responsibilities will encompass detailed CAD design, structural analysis, prototyping, and testing, all while working collaboratively with cross-functional engineering teams.

Join the Pyka TeamAt Pyka, we are dedicated to revolutionizing the transportation landscape through safe, clean, and cost-effective autonomous electric aviation.We are pioneering innovative approaches by deploying our technology across various industries that can benefit from autonomous electric aircraft, starting with the most critical and high-risk tasks. Our mission is to deliver groundbreaking products manufactured at scale, while honing the safety, reliability, and performance of our autonomy engine and electric propulsion systems.Our expertise encompasses a complete ecosystem of technologies, including proprietary flight control software, advanced avionics, high power density motors, motor controllers, batteries, and custom carbon-fiber composite airframes.Currently, we are providing autonomous electric aircraft for cargo transport and agricultural crop protection to clients across four continents, having achieved industry-first regulatory approvals from the FAA. Our cargo aircraft enhance express delivery networks and ensure rapid shipping of essential supplies to underserved areas, while our crop protection aircraft offers a safer, more precise autonomous solution for aerial applications, minimizing environmental impact. Both vehicle types are designed for economic efficiency, ease of deployment, and significant reductions in CO2 emissions.Your contributions at Pyka will enhance lives today and bring us closer to the future of electric aviation.Position SummaryWe are seeking a Flight Test Operator to validate and scale the operations of our cutting-edge autonomous aircraft. In this role, you will rigorously evaluate new hardware and software features to ensure the successful deployment of Pyka’s aircraft in various customer operations worldwide. Your focus will be on assessing the continuous operation of our aircraft and ground support infrastructure.This is a multidisciplinary position requiring collaboration with various internal teams, making strong written and verbal communication skills essential. Your efforts will be pivotal in Pyka’s mission to deliver the safest products to our customers. Primary operations will be conducted at our local California test sites, with opportunities to support international client deployments as needed.

About PykaAt Pyka, we are committed to transforming transportation through safe, clean, and cost-effective autonomous electric aviation solutions. Our innovative approach sets us apart, as we leverage cutting-edge technologies across industries that can benefit from autonomous electric aircraft, starting with critical and high-value applications.We are dedicated to designing, developing, and manufacturing a comprehensive ecosystem of technologies, including proprietary flight control software, avionics, high power density motors, motor controllers, batteries, and custom carbon-fiber composite airframes. This commitment allows us to create groundbreaking products that prioritize safety, reliability, and efficiency.Currently, our autonomous electric aircraft are revolutionizing cargo transport and crop protection for clients across four continents, having received industry-first regulatory approvals from the FAA. Our solutions enhance supply chain connectivity and agricultural precision, significantly reducing environmental impacts while ensuring operational efficiency.Joining Pyka means contributing to advancements that improve lives today and bring the future of electric aviation closer every day.Role OverviewWe are seeking a Senior Motor Control Engineer to become a vital member of our passionate engineering team. In this pivotal role, you will be entrusted with system-level and component-level design and testing across a diverse array of subsystems, engaging in various hardware projects.Your responsibilities will encompass:Design and development of high power density motor controllers (30kW to 100kW)Integration of electronics for airplane spray and pump systemsDevelopment of air data boardsCreation of various PCBs to facilitate testing of hardware

About PykaAt Pyka, we are dedicated to revolutionizing transportation with safe, sustainable, and cost-effective autonomous electric aviation solutions.Our innovative approach enables us to apply cutting-edge technology across diverse industries that can benefit from autonomous electric aircraft, starting with the most critical and hazardous tasks. We are committed to developing groundbreaking products at scale that enhance safety, reliability, and the performance of our autonomy engine and electric propulsion systems.Our ecosystem includes proprietary flight control software, advanced avionics, high-density motors, motor controllers, batteries, and custom carbon-fiber composite airframes.Currently, we provide autonomous electric aircraft for cargo transportation and agricultural crop protection, serving clients across four continents and achieving industry-first regulatory approvals from the FAA. Our cargo solutions enhance connectivity and expedite delivery networks, facilitating the rapid and reliable transport of essential goods. Our aircraft for crop protection empowers farmers with safer, more precise aerial application methods, significantly reducing environmental impact. Both aircraft are designed for cost-efficiency and ease of deployment while contributing to a decrease in CO2 emissions.Your contributions at Pyka will enhance lives today and propel the future of electric aviation forward.Role OverviewWe are seeking a talented Senior Software Engineer to join our expert team focused on the full stack of aviation robotics. You will tackle a variety of technical challenges in planning, mapping, object detection, simulation, controls, and more. This role involves scoping, planning, and implementing large-scale features for our autonomous aircraft and its ground infrastructure. Ideal candidates will have proven experience in solving complex, high-level problems and a successful track record of delivering impactful results. As a senior member of our engineering team, you will also have opportunities for technical leadership and mentorship.

ABOUT SAILDRONESaildrone is a pioneering maritime defense company, recognized globally as the leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With unparalleled operational experience and more ocean miles traversed than any other USV manufacturer or operator, Saildrone actively deploys combat-ready systems that support national security and force projection worldwide, operating 24/7/365.Located in Alameda, CA, Saildrone's manufacturing and R&D headquarters drive innovation, with business development and sales operations based in Washington, DC, and deployment hubs strategically positioned in Europe and the Middle East. By merging proven autonomous operations, cutting-edge edge computing, advanced sensing technologies, and renewable energy sources, Saildrone is redefining the operational capabilities of the Navy for the future. Join a dynamic, mission-focused team that is leading the charge in maritime security and autonomous advancements.ROLE OVERVIEWWe are in search of a Staff Machine Learning Engineer to join our innovative team. Reporting to the Engineering Manager of Machine Learning, you will be integral in designing, deploying, and scaling machine learning systems that foster autonomy and deliver real-time intelligence across Saildrone’s global fleet. You will enhance Saildrone’s model portfolio and ensure robust, high-performance inference on edge hardware within complex maritime environments. We seek a technical leader who excels in navigating ambiguity, drives holistic project execution, and assumes ownership of production ML systems in mission-critical scenarios.This position requires onsite presence in Alameda, CA three days a week as part of our hybrid work model. Remote work is not an option.TEAM INSIGHTThe Machine Learning team is tasked with developing and deploying models that enhance perception, autonomy, and intelligence across Saildrone’s fleet of autonomous surface vehicles. Our focus is on constructing scalable, high-performance ML systems that convert multimodal sensor data into actionable insights, facilitating continuous maritime awareness in national security and defense contexts.KEY RESPONSIBILITIESProduction & Mission Impact: Create and implement production-grade ML models for real-time perception to identify, classify, and track high-value targets, enabling USVs to function continuously in challenging and hostile maritime environments.Edge Architecture & Autonomy: Oversee the complete ML lifecycle architecture, ensuring model reliability on NVIDIA Jetson/AGX platforms and advancing autonomous decision-making processes.

Join Us in Shaping the Future of Rare-Earth MetalsAt Solcoa, we are on a mission to stabilize the supply chain of rare-earth metals essential for modern technology, powering everything from fighter jets to electric vehicles. As one of the few companies outside China producing these critical metals, and the only one providing a fully U.S. sourced supply of both light and heavy rare earths, we are committed to a carbon-zero process that transforms end-of-life magnets into usable metal. Our innovative approach aims to enhance energy independence while securing vital resources for the future.Join our dynamic and well-funded team as we significantly ramp up Western rare-earth production. We are assembling a top-tier team of engineers to tackle this pressing challenge.Your Role — Mechanical EngineerWe are seeking a proactive Mechanical Engineer to conceptualize, design, and develop the next generation of our rare-earth reactors. You will guide designs from initial concepts to commissioning, collaborating closely with machinists and researchers to transform innovative ideas into functional systems.Key ResponsibilitiesDesign and model reactor subsystems (thermal, vacuum, materials handling) using CAD (Fusion).Select components, tolerances, and materials suitable for high-temperature, corrosive, and vacuum conditions.Develop and refine prototypes; conduct experiments; analyze data to inform design improvements.Create documentation including procedures, test plans, and safety/operating guides.Work with fabrication partners to drive continuous improvement initiatives.QualificationsRequired Skills and ExperienceExpertise in CAD (Fusion).Practical experience with metal machining and use of shop tools.Familiarity with high-temperature systems and/or vacuum hardware.Strong attention to detail and high-quality technical execution.Ability to work autonomously in a fast-paced, build-measure-learn environment.Immediate availability preferred.Preferred QualificationsRelevant coursework or experience in chemistry or physics (thermodynamics, materials science, reaction engineering, or similar fields).Compensation & BenefitsCompetitive base salary.Generous stock options.

Join our dynamic team at Silana Technologies as an Engineering Technician, where you'll play a crucial role in supporting engineering projects and ensuring smooth operations. This position is perfect for individuals who are detail-oriented and have a passion for technology.

Empowering the Future with Rare-Earth MetalsAt Solcoa, we are on a mission to stabilize the supply chain of rare-earth metals essential for modern technologies, including fighter jets, electric vehicles, wind turbines, smartphones, and generators. As one of the few companies outside of China producing these critical materials, we are proud to offer a 100% U.S. supply of both light and heavy rare earths. Our innovative carbon-zero process transforms end-of-life magnets into metals, paving the way for energy independence and safeguarding essential resources.Join our dynamic, well-funded team that is rapidly advancing Western rare-earth production. We are committed to building a world-class team to address this pressing challenge.Your Role: Mechanical Engineering InternAs a Mechanical Engineering Intern, you will collaborate with our hardware team to translate designs into functioning systems. Your responsibilities will include supporting reactor subsystem design in CAD, assisting with prototype assembly and testing, and maintaining precise documentation while working alongside engineers, machinists, and technicians to expedite the transition from concept to operational systems.ResponsibilitiesDevelop and update CAD (Fusion preferred) models/drawings, BOMs, and basic GD&T for thermal, vacuum, and handling subsystems.Assist in the fabrication and assembly of prototypes, including cutting, drilling, tapping, fitting, and basic machining.Aid in selecting components such as valves, fittings, heaters, and sensors for high-temperature and vacuum environments under engineer supervision.Conduct tests, gather and process data, and summarize findings to guide design iterations.Perform leak checks, pressure tests, and maintain well-organized logs.Support vendor communications, pricing requests, and purchasing while keeping parts and tools organized.Foster a safety-first culture and contribute to ongoing improvements on the shop floor.QualificationsRequired:Currently pursuing a BS/MS in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.Proficient in CAD (Fusion preferred; SolidWorks acceptable).Hands-on experience with building projects from labs, clubs, internships, or personal endeavors (machine shop tools, 3D printing, or fabrication).Strong attention to detail, organized documentation skills, and reliable follow-through.Comfortable working in a fast-paced, hardware-focused environment and eager to engage in hands-on tasks.Must be available on-site and able to start soon.

Empowering the World with Rare-Earth MetalsAt Solcoa, we are dedicated to stabilizing the supply chain of rare-earth metals in the western world, essential for every fighter jet, electric vehicle, wind turbine, smartphone, and generator. As one of the few companies outside China producing these vital resources, we proudly offer a 100% U.S. supply of both light and heavy rare earths. Our innovative carbon-zero process transforms end-of-life magnets directly into metal, facilitating energy independence and securing critical resources for the future.We are a dynamic, well-funded team committed to rapidly advancing rare-earth production in the West. Join us in building a world-class team to tackle this urgent challenge.The Opportunity — Senior Process EngineerIn this pivotal role, you will spearhead the scale-up of our pilot operations into a demonstration plant, establishing the foundation for subsequent commercial facilities. You will convert research and development outputs into engineered processes, collaborate with external engineering firms and EPCs, and ensure the safe, timely construction and commissioning of our operations.

ABOUT SAILDRONESaildrone is a pioneering maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With unmatched operational experience and more oceanic miles traversed than any other USV manufacturer, Saildrone operates combat-deployed systems that bolster national security and force projection around the globe, 24/7.Our manufacturing and R&D headquarters are based in Alameda, California, complemented by business development and sales operations in Washington, DC, along with deployment hubs across Europe and the Middle East. By leveraging cutting-edge autonomous technology, advanced sensing, renewable energy solutions, and robust unmanned surface vehicle technology, Saildrone is redefining naval operations for the future. Join our dynamic, mission-oriented team leading the charge in maritime security and autonomous innovation.POSITION OVERVIEWWe are on the lookout for a dedicated Technical Operations Engineer to join our Fleet Operations team. Reporting directly to the Technical Operations Manager, you will be instrumental in guaranteeing the reliability, performance, and readiness of Saildrone’s autonomous surface vehicles throughout their entire lifecycle—from production to global deployment in diverse environments, including extreme conditions such as hurricanes and Arctic climates. We seek a systems-oriented engineer who flourishes in ambiguous situations, adeptly identifies problems and their root causes, and translates real-world vehicle performance into tangible engineering and operational enhancements.TEAM DYNAMICSThe Technical Operations team is committed to ensuring the consistent performance of Saildrone’s autonomous systems in the most demanding maritime environments. We collaborate closely with Engineering, Production, and Operations to connect design to deployment, accelerate product iterations, and deliver resilient systems that advance national security and maritime intelligence objectives.KEY RESPONSIBILITIESAdvanced Diagnostics: Tackle complex hardware, software, and networking challenges using Linux command-line tools, telemetry, and shell scripting to secure mission success.System Ownership: Take responsibility for the technical outcomes of assigned vehicles, focusing on reliability, performance (SLIs/SLOs), and operational readiness.Root Cause Analysis: Lead in-depth root cause analyses for field failures; prioritize causes based on likelihood using imperfect data sets and initiate corrective measures across design, processes, and tooling.Embedded Collaboration: Integrate with engineering design teams to provide insights on system architecture and functionality.

Join Silana Technologies as a Staff Battery Engineer, where you will be at the forefront of innovative battery technology development. You will collaborate with a dynamic team to design, test, and enhance battery systems that power the future. This role is ideal for candidates passionate about energy solutions and committed to advancing sustainable technology.

OverviewThe Manufacturing Engineering team is pivotal in introducing advanced manufacturing technologies and sustainable practices that facilitate the launch of innovative products and enhance production efficiency. This role offers a unique opportunity to cultivate professional skills while contributing to projects of significant global impact, essential for our organization's success. You will collaborate closely with production and cross-departmental engineering teams to address challenges that arise on the production floor and throughout the organization.Key Responsibilities•Identify and solve production challenges by implementing creative solutions. *•Conduct thorough root cause analyses and propose validated solutions. *•Effectively communicate and clarify issues and solutions across various departments. *•Maintain a meticulous approach to problem-solving. *•Support production by creating and updating product and process documentation; track equipment performance and implement improvements to enhance yield, efficiency, and throughput. *•Design fixtures, procure off-the-shelf tooling and equipment, and introduce new fixturing on the production line while conducting equipment qualifications. *•Test processes, equipment, raw materials, and products; perform process validations, author testing protocols, and document findings with recommendations based on results. *•Plan, schedule, and oversee detailed phases of engineering projects. *•Develop specifications for products, processes, or equipment. *•Utilize statistical techniques and engineering expertise to develop, characterize, and optimize processes. *•Collaborate with suppliers and external resources to enhance process improvement initiatives. *•Engage in project planning and scheduling. *•Provide training to assemblers, quality control personnel, and technicians on processes, equipment, and documentation. *•Comply with the Company’s Quality Management System (QMS) and relevant quality regulations and standards. *•Understand and adhere to applicable security, privacy, and compliance principles. *

ABOUT SAILDRONESaildrone Inc. is a pioneering maritime defense company, recognized globally as a leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). Our cutting-edge technology and extensive operational experience position us uniquely in the maritime sector, supporting national security and force projection 24/7, 365 days a year.Based in Alameda, California, our manufacturing and R&D facilities drive innovation, with additional operations in Washington, D.C., and deployment hubs across Europe and the Middle East. We are transforming the future of naval operations through our advanced autonomous systems, edge computing, and renewable technologies. Join our dedicated team at the forefront of maritime security and innovation.POSITION OVERVIEWWe are on the lookout for a Senior Systems Engineer to enhance our Engineering team. Reporting directly to the VP of Hardware, you will spearhead the systems engineering function, ensuring that hardware, software, firmware, and mission systems work seamlessly as a unified, mission-ready platform. Your contributions will significantly influence vehicle performance, reliability, and the effective deployment of our autonomous systems at sea. We seek a technical leader who embodies systems-level rigor, clarifies complex architectures, and drives disciplined execution across cross-functional teams in dynamic, mission-critical settings. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in systems engineering and program execution, particularly within the defense, aerospace, or maritime sectors.TEAM STRUCTUREThe Systems Engineering team plays a pivotal role in leading key R&D initiatives, establishing precise system-level requirements and interfaces from the outset, ensuring technical progress throughout, and leading the testing phase to validate system performance against defined metrics. Collaboration with Hardware, Firmware, Security, Software, and Project Management teams is crucial to delivering robust, scalable, and high-performing systems.KEY RESPONSIBILITIESArchitectural Excellence: Define and uphold system architectures and interface control documents (ICDs) to ensure high platform reliability and performance across all systems.

About UsAt Sila, we are pioneers in the next-generation battery materials industry, dedicated to facilitating the global transition towards clean energy. Our mission is to design and manufacture innovative lithium-ion battery materials that enhance energy density while minimizing size and weight. This results in more compact and powerful batteries that can revolutionize consumer electronics and promote the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, helping to break our reliance on fossil fuels. Join us in tackling one of the most significant challenges of our era, as we redefine the boundaries of possibility.Who You AreWe are on the lookout for an experienced and proactive R&D Test Engineer who is passionate about exploring new technologies and conducting experiments. This role positions you at the heart of Sila’s experimental initiatives, where you will take the lead in designing, executing, and analyzing experiments on both lab and pilot scale equipment as part of a vibrant test engineering team. Your work will provide vital data to understand the interplay between equipment design, process conditions, and material properties, enabling informed decisions for scaling up.You will accelerate Sila’s learning curve and drive impactful decision-making through collaboration. You will work closely with engineers, scientists, and technicians, all depending on your expertise. Your role bridges material science, process engineering, equipment design, systems engineering, and data science. You transform raw data into essential insights and tackle problems head-on, becoming the go-to person for debugging and problem-solving. Your strong communication skills will allow you to engage effectively in technical discussions and debates.

Pyka designs and manufactures autonomous electric aircraft, along with the technology that powers them. The team develops proprietary flight control software, avionics, high power density motors, motor controllers, batteries, and custom carbon-fiber composite airframes. Pyka’s aircraft are used for cargo transport and crop protection across four continents, and have achieved industry-first FAA approvals. Their cargo aircraft help connect remote locations and support express delivery networks, while crop protection aircraft provide safer, more precise aerial applications for agriculture. Both lines prioritize easy deployment, cost savings, and reducing CO2 emissions. Role overview This Software Engineer position is based at Pyka’s Alameda headquarters. The focus is on developing the Ground Control application, a real-time system using Qt, QML, and C++. The Ground Control Station is a key part of aircraft operations, demanding careful attention to user experience, strong frontend and backend engineering, and smooth integration with other systems. What you will do Take ownership of major features within the Ground Control platform Build and refine a reliable, user-friendly, and high-performance product that supports real-world flight operations Work on both frontend and backend aspects, ensuring seamless system integration Who will succeed in this role Engineers with experience in complex systems, such as vehicles, robotics, or industrial platforms, who value usability and reliability will find this work central to how users interact with autonomous aircraft.