About Forterra

Forterra is a leading provider of autonomous systems for ground-based movement in the working world. Amongst some of the earliest innovators in the field of driverless technology, Forterra is focused on building systems that protect front-line soldiers and enable civilian workers in our industrial base. Forterra is the go-to provider of ground autonomy solutions for the U.S. Department of Defense, which harnesses the technology for asymmetric warfare in critical conditions.

About the role

Forterra is redefining ground autonomy by integrating mission-critical capabilities—such as Counter-UAS, fire-control, and advanced ISR—into modular, vehicle-based payloads. We’re looking for an experienced Software Engineer to lead the architecture, integration, and qualification of software supporting these mission payloads.  

In this role, you’ll implement open standard communications and control frameworks (e.g., IOP, GCIA), integrate sensors and effectors, and ensure full-lifecycle support from design through field deployment. You'll work cross-functionally and externally to deliver scalable, high-performance software that meets the demands of real-world missions.  

The ideal candidate has a strong software development background, familiarity with robotics and autonomous systems, and proven track record of collaborating with a cross-functional team of engineers, researchers, and product managers to create robust and scalable software for complex systems. 

What you'll do

• Design and implement software using C++ in a Linux environment  

• Work with stakeholders to define requirements and integrate and verify systems. 

• Architect and implement modular software aligned with MOSA principles (IOP, GCIA, VICTORY, and similar standards) 

• Integrate sensors, perception systems, and effectors into Forterra’s software stack with reliable data and control paths 

• Design, implement, and document APIs and inter-process communications in accordance with system ICDs  

• Collaborate with autonomy, embedded, and systems engineers to ensure seamless software hardware integration 

• Ensure safety and mission assurance compliance (MIL-STD-882E, JSSSEH, etc as applicable) throughout development 

• Support verification, validation, and qualification testing in both lab and field environments  

• Partner with government customers and third-party vendors on integration, debugging, and deployment 

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in software engineering or systems integration for defense, robotics, or autonomous platforms 

• Proficiency in C++ and Python, with hands-on experience using ROS and DDS middleware  

• Strong background in modular, standards-compliant software development 

• Familiarity with IOP, GCIA, VICTORY, and other open architecture frameworks 

• Experience integrating cameras, sensors, perception algorithms, and effectors 

• Skilled in developing and consuming APIs and maintaining clear ICD documentation 

• Demonstrated understanding of safety-critical systems and relevant standards (MIL-STD-882E, JSSSEH) 

• Track record of supporting system-level software qualification and test campaigns 

• U.S. Persons and eligibility for a security clearance 

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with fire-control or kinetic payload integration 

• Familiarity with embedded Linux, RTOS, and real-time distributed systems 

• Background in multi-agent autonomy, tactical command-and-control, or secure networked systems 

• Experience collaborating with government and defense primes in multi-vendor environments  

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, especially around technical documentation  

• Experience with inverse kinematics and motion planning for robotic manipulators or articulated platforms 

US Salary Range
 $135,000—$160,000
 

The salary range for this role is an estimate and is based on a wide variety of compensation factors. The salary offered to candidates will vary based on a variety of factors including (but not limited to) relevant work experience, education, specialized training, critical expertise, training, and more. Equity in Forterra is included in most of our full-time, high-demand roles and is therefore considered part of Forterra’s overall compensation package. In addition to base salary and equity, Forterra offers competitive benefits for full-time employees including:

• Premium Healthcare Benefits: Three plan options, including an HSA-eligible plan, with Forterra covering 80% of the plan premium for you and your dependents.  
• Basic Life/AD&D, short and long-term disability insurance plans 100% covered by Forterra, plus the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your dependents.
• Extremely generous company holiday calendar including a winter break in December.
• Competitive paid time off (PTO) offering 20 days accrued per year.
• A minimum of 7 weeks fully paid parental leave for birth/adoption. 
• A $9k annual tuition reimbursement or professional development stipend.
• Fully stocked beverage refrigerators with all the Celsius your little heart desires. 
• 401(k) retirement savings plan, including traditional, Roth 401(k), and after-tax deferral with company match up to 4%.

Your recruiter will be able to share more information about our salary and benefits offering during the hiring process.  

Forterra is an equal-opportunity employer, providing and promoting equal employment opportunity in accordance with local, state, and federal laws. Forterrans are unique, talented individuals who are united through a shared passion to deliver autonomous systems that enable national resilience and a robust supply chain. All qualified applications will receive equal consideration for employment.