Forward Deployed Software Engineer
Company: Saronic
Location: San Diego
Posted on: February 20, 2026
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Job Description:
Job Description Job Description Job Overview We are seeking a
Forward Deployed Software Engineer who will be at the forefront of
integrating, deploying, and improving our autonomous systems in
real-world environments. You will work hands-on with software,
networking, and autonomy, ensuring our autonomous service vessels
perform reliably in operational settings. This role blends software
development, field deployment, and problem-solving to ensure our
technology delivers real mission impact. You will be deeply engaged
in debugging and optimizing autonomy algorithms, refining system
performance based on real-world data, and working closely with
end-users to adapt our technology to mission needs. Whether
troubleshooting networking issues, improving sensor integration, or
refining control logic, you will play a critical role in making our
systems more capable and reliable. You will be the link between
groundbreaking autonomy technology and real-world success. You will
work on the front lines of maritime autonomy, ensuring our systems
operate effectively in the environments where they matter most. You
will impact mission success and shape the future of autonomous
maritime operations. Responsibilities Develop and refine software
for autonomy, networking, and mission execution, improving system
performance in real-world maritime conditions Deploy and test ASV
software in the field, identifying and resolving issues related to
autonomy, perception, and control systems Analyze performance data
from real-world missions, using insights to drive software
improvements and optimize system behavior Integrate and validate
new autonomy features, ensuring seamless interaction between
software, sensors, and vessel hardware Work directly with operators
and end-users, gathering feedback and adapting the system to
operational requirements Troubleshoot and resolve software,
hardware, and networking issues that arise during deployments
Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including autonomy
engineers, hardware developers, and field operations personnel, to
enhance product capabilities Document best practices, deployment
procedures, and debugging workflows to improve system reliability
and scalability Qualifications Strong software engineering skills,
with experience in C++, Rust, Python, or similar languages
Background in robotics, autonomy, or embedded systems, particularly
in maritime, aerospace, or defense applications Understanding of
networking protocols and distributed systems, including TCP/IP,
UDP, and message-passing frameworks Experience working with sensors
such as cameras, radar, GPS, and IMUs, especially in
perception-driven autonomy applications Ability to diagnose and
debug complex systems, from low-level networking issues to
high-level autonomy behaviors Ability to work in dynamic
environments, where software must adapt to real-world constraints
and unpredictable conditions Willingness to travel (up to 50%),
spending time in the field testing and improving ASV systems in
real-world maritime settings Experience developing autonomy
software for real-world robotic systems, particularly in
challenging environments like the ocean Familiarity with motion
planning, behavior trees, and control algorithms for autonomous
navigation Background in maritime systems, naval operations, or
defense technology Knowledge of distributed autonomy architectures
and multi-agent coordination Hands-on experience integrating and
deploying robotic systems in the field Benefits Medical Insurance:
Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of services
Dental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups,
orthodontics, and vision care Saronic pays 100% of the premium for
employees and 80% for dependents Time Off: Generous PTO and
Holidays Parental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to
support new parents Competitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries
with opportunities for performance-based bonuses Retirement Plan:
401(k) plan Stock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake
in the company’s success Life and Disability Insurance: Basic life
insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage Additional
Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in
the office Physical Demands Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk
and working on a computer Occasional standing and walking within
the office Manual dexterity to operate a computer keyboard, mouse,
and other office equipment Visual acuity to read screens,
documents, and reports Occasional reaching, bending, or stooping to
access file drawers, cabinets, or office supplies Lifting and
carrying items up to 20 pounds occasionally (e.g., office supplies,
packages) This role requires access to export-controlled
information or items that require “U.S. Person” status. As defined
by U.S. law, individuals who are any one of the following are
considered to be a “U.S. Person”: (1) U.S. citizens, (2) legal
permanent residents (a.k.a. green card holders), and (3) certain
protected classes of asylees and refugees, as defined in 8 U.S.C.
1324b(a)(3).
Keywords: Saronic, National City , Forward Deployed Software Engineer, IT / Software / Systems , San Diego, California
