Configure, tune, and iterate on autopilot firmware for fixed-wing airframes, including PID tuning, failsafe logic, auto modes, and mission scripting using ArduPlane; Read, modify, and debug ArduPilot source code (C++) to extend autopilot capabilities, implement custom behaviors, and resolve vehicle-level anomalies; Design, build, and iterate on fixed-wing airframes across aerodynamics, structures, and propulsion integration — optimized for payload capacity, endurance, and operational resilience; Support flight test campaigns alongside flight operations — pre-flight vehicle readiness checks, ground station and telemetry setup, in-field troubleshooting, and rapid turnaround of firmware and hardware fixes between flights; Develop C2 link architecture, RF link budgets, electronics integration, and spectrum compliance strategies for long-range BVLOS operations; Design and implement custom ground station software and user interfaces to support mission planning, real-time monitoring, and post-flight analysis; Integrate and validate onboard science payloads and sensors, ensuring electrical compatibility, data integrity, and mission performance; Analyze flight logs (MAVExplorer, Flight Review) to diagnose anomalies, validate performance models, and drive systematic improvements to vehicle reliability; Design and fabricate custom electronics, including PCB layout for power distribution, sensor interfacing, and avionics integration; Document designs, test results, firmware change logs, and component specifications to build a scalable engineering knowledge base for the drone program. BS + 2-4 or MS + 0-2 years of hands-on hardware/software systems integration experience required, in real-mission or production contexts; Proficiency in C++ and Python, with demonstrated experience reading, modifying, and debugging ArduPilot source code; strong familiarity with MAVLink protocol and GCS tooling; Hands-on experience with ArduPilot or PX4 based autopilot systems, preferably in production-ready or real-mission contexts; Experience with RF link design, C2 spectrum compliance, antenna selection, and electronics integration for long-range UAV systems; Electronics design and integration experience required; PCB design and fabrication experience is a strong plus; FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is a plus (or the ability to obtain is required); BVLOS waiver experience is a strong plus; Ability to work hands-on across the full hardware stack — from firmware and avionics to airframe fabrication and field deployment — in a small team environment; Experience with atmospheric sensing instrumentation or science payload integration is a strong plus; Strong documentation and engineering rigor: changelogs, test reports, design rationale, and component specifications suitable for future scaling and external review; Genuine passion for building novel aerial systems with real-world scientific impact, and comfort operating at the frontier of hardware, firmware, and systems engineering.