Forward Deployed Engineer

The role

You will embed onsite with critical customers to install, configure, and commission drone systems and software. You will triage and debug hardware, firmware, and software issues in the field and implement fixes. This role acts as a technical liaison between customers and headquarters engineering.

What you will do

• Deploy onsite for multi-week engagements to install and commission drones, nests, controllers, and software
• Support live operational flights including testing, briefings, and debriefs
• Triage and debug issues in software, firmware, hardware, networking, and RF
• Implement and validate fixes on-site and upstream work into the mainline product
• Serve as the primary technical liaison between customers and headquarters engineering
• Rotate to Seattle headquarters to work with embedded, perception, controls, test, and manufacturing engineers
• Maintain technical expertise in products, flying proficiency, and FAA Part 107 license
• Build trust-based relationships with customers and public safety agencies
• Document issues and create knowledge base articles and training materials
• Participate in an after-hours support rotation

Required qualifications

• 4+ years of industry experience in software engineering, field engineering, systems engineering, or technical support of complex hardware systems
• Proven experience troubleshooting complex technical systems across hardware, firmware, and software
• Ability to obtain and maintain an FAA Part 107 license and currency certifications
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to remain calm and decisive in mission-critical situations
• Willingness to participate in rotating after-hours on-call support schedules
• Ability to travel upwards of 90%, including multi-week deployments and short notice
• Proficiency in Python and the ability to read, modify, and debug C/C++
• Working knowledge of Linux environments, command-line tools, scripting, and basic networking
• Strong understanding of embedded systems, robotics, or electro-mechanical devices
• Ability to work independently in a dynamic environment

Nice to have

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline
• 5+ years supporting UAS, robotics platforms, or other safety-critical hardware in operational environments
• Prior experience in a forward deployed, field application, or customer-embedded engineering role
• Experience developing software for UAV and UAS used in commercial, industrial, or defense applications
• Experience with flight control, navigation, and autonomy applications
• Experience with standard embedded interfaces (I2C, SPI, UART, CAN, etc.) and interpreting logs and telemetry
• Familiarity with real-time video and telemetry systems, and operations center software
• Experience with cellular and wireless network operations, including RF troubleshooting in the field
• Prior experience working directly with public safety agencies, first responders, or government entities
• Public safety and sUAS program experience, including working knowledge of FAA Part 107, public safety COA, and COW regulations

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental and vision plans for employees and families
• 401K plan
• Maternity and paternity leave
• Flexible Time Off (Exempt) / Paid time off (Non-Exempt)
• Flexible work environment
• Orca pass (for those in Puget Sound)
• Free snacks, drinks and espresso (Seattle office)

About the company

BRINC is a vertically integrated U.S. drone technology company that designs and manufactures unmanned aircraft systems, autonomous drone stations, command-and-control software, and advanced autonomy for public safety.