Embedded Systems Engineer - Payload Integration

About Us:

HavocAI is an innovative defense technology company making scalable maritime autonomy a reality. We are pioneering an end-to-end solution for planning, tasking and control of uncrewed surface vessels (USVs). As we continue to quickly grow, we are looking for motivated individuals that are inspired to work within an extremely energetic, creative, and innovative team that is passionate about maritime robotics and exploring the open ocean. We work in a highly dynamic environment where collaboration and idea sharing are a way of life.

About the Role:

We are seeking an Embedded Systems Software Engineer focused on Payload Integration for the integration, control, and networking of a wide range of sensors and communications payloads onboard our autonomous vessels. This includes working with camera systems (including ONVIF PTZ, Stereo Cameras, LWIR, etc.), radar, AIS, software-defined radios (SDRs), and networked data transport via MQTT, TCP/IP, and streaming platforms like MediaMTX. This role will help define the architecture and software that connects these systems to our autonomy stack and ensures reliable, real-time performance in field deployments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop embedded software and middleware to interface with and control payload systems such as:
  • ONVIF pan/tilt/zoom (PTZ) cameras
  • Maritime radar systems
  • AIS transponders and receivers
  • Software-defined radios (SDRs)
• Implement and maintain communication over IP-based protocols (TCP/UDP, MQTT, RTSP) and integrate media transport systems such as MediaMTX.
• Design abstraction layers to make sensor data available to autonomy systems, both onboard and remote.
• Work closely with autonomy, networking, and hardware teams to ensure seamless integration and system robustness.
• Lead field testing and validation of new payload configurations and upgrades.
• Document payload interface specifications, deployment configurations, and software APIs.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• Strong embedded development experience with C/C++ on ARM platforms (e.g., STM32) and Linux-based systems.
• Proven experience integrating networked sensors and streaming media payloads.
• Familiarity with ONVIF protocols and IP camera control.
• Proficiency with TCP/IP, MQTT, and media protocols like RTSP/RTMP.
• Comfortable working with radar, SDRs, or similar RF-based systems.
• Experience with Linux networking, shell scripting, and system debugging.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen and eligible to obtain a Secret Clearance.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with marine communication systems (CAN, NMEA2000).
• Familiarity with media streaming servers.
• Experience with ROS2, DDS, or similar pub/sub frameworks.
• Experience with autonomous systems and real-world sensor integration.
• Field experiences deploying complex sensor platforms in marine or rugged environments.

Location:

• Greater Boston Area

Compensation and Benefits:

• The target salary range for this position is $120,000 - $180,000
• 100% Employer paid Health, Dental and Vision Insurance for you and your families
• Ability to participate in the companies 401k program
• Unlimited PTO policy with an enforced 2 week minimum
• Equity Package
• Work / Home Office Stipend
• Global Entry Re-Imbursement
• 16 Week Paid Parental Leave
• Monthly Health and Wellness Stipend

Our Values:

• Innovation: We are driven to break new ground. Every day presents an opportunity to challenge the status quo, think boldly, and deliver advanced solutions that transform the future of defense technology.
• Integrity: We hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards, ensuring transparency, accountability, and trust in all our actions and partnerships.
• Mission-Driven: We are focused on achieving impactful outcomes that align with our core mission—protecting lives through innovation.
• Forward-Leaning: We continuously seek out new opportunities and remain at the forefront of technological advancements. We embrace change and anticipate the challenges of tomorrow with confidence and creativity.
• Ownership of All Tasks: At HavocAI, no problem is too complex or too trivial. We believe that greatness comes from tackling the hardest challenges, but also in handling the smallest, sometimes thankless, tasks with the same level of commitment and care.
• Servant Leadership: We lead by serving others, whether it’s supporting our employees, partners, or the broader community. Empowering those around us is key to achieving long-term success and making a lasting impact.

HavocAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.