Samtel Avionics - Manager/Deputy Manager - Embedded Software Development

Description :

Title : Manager / Deputy Manager Software Development

Role Overview :

Software Architecture & Development :

- Drive implementation of real-time systems (C/C++/RTOS) for autopilot, navigation, telemetry and vehicle control.

- Oversee development of middleware interfaces (ROS/ROS2, DDS, MAVLink, etc.).

- Drive UAV simulation environments using Gazebo, PX4 SITL/HITL, Mission Planner and custom simulators.

Autonomy, Swarming & Mission Systems :

- Guide development of autonomous behaviours : waypoint missions, auto take-off/landing, terrain-following, swarm algorithms, MUM-T integration, and loitering munition mission logic.

- Collaborate with AI/ML teams to integrate perception-based features (object tracking, obstacle avoidance, target acquisition).

- Architect and lead development of swarming algorithms for multi-UAV coordinated missions.

Ground Control Systems (GCS) :

- Oversee design of intuitive and robust GCS interfaces (Qt/Python/C++/Web), mission planning tools and operator workflows.

- Implement secure datalinks, encryption and fail-safe communication logic (LTE/Mesh/S-band/C-band).

Integration with Hardware & Payloads :

- Work with avionics, electronics and payload teams to integrate sensors, EO/IR gimbals, communication systems and weaponization modules (where applicable).

- Ensure seamless interface between software, flight controller and mission avionics.

Computer Vision, AI & Perception :

- Guide development of AI/ML and computer vision pipelines on edge hardware (NVIDIA Jetson, RK3588, custom SBCs).

- Implement perception-based capabilities, such as, Object detection, tracking & classification, Target acquisition & image-based guidance (for loitering munitions), etc.

- Work with data teams for dataset creation, training, testing and model optimization.

Quality, Testing & Certification :

- Document and enforce software development standards aligned with aerospace guidelines (DO-178C, DGCA, STANAG, JSS-55555, CEMILAC, military-grade testing).

- Drive unit testing, automated testing, SIL/HIL setups, regression testing and continuous integration pipelines.

- Ensure cybersecurity compliance and secure coding practices.

Team Leadership :

- Build, mentor, and manage a multi-disciplinary software engineering team.

- Drive sprint planning, code reviews, technical training and structured career growth.

- Foster a culture of innovation, accountability and problem-solving.

Cross-Functional Collaboration :

- Collaborate with flight-testing, mechanical, avionics, manufacturing and systems engineering teams.

- Support mission demonstrations, customer trials and field deployments.

Required Skills & Experience :

Technical Skills :

- Experience with PX4, ArduPilot, ROS/ROS2, drone control stack and middleware.

- Familiarity with AI/ML integration for UAV systems.

- Deep understanding of aerodynamics, control systems, EKF/INS, SLAM, and navigation algorithms.

- Experience building GCS applications using Qt/QML or web technologies.

- Experience with military communication protocols & secure networking.

- Proven experience managing engineering teams and large software projects.

- Strong documentation discipline and understanding of certification workflows.

Preferred Qualifications & Experience :

- Tech/ M. Minimum 5 - 12 years of experience in UAV or autonomous systems, defence, aerospace domains.

- Experience working in defence programmes (IAF/IA/IN/DRDO) or global OEM standards.

- Exposure to Loitering Munitions (LM), VTOL systems, Swarm UAVs or MUM-T architectures.

- Knowledge of DevOps (GitLab CI, Docker, Jenkins), cybersecurity and RTOS environments.