Manager - Software Development (UAV)

Title: Manager / Deputy Manager – Software Development Role Overview The Manager/ Deputy Manager – Software Development will lead the end-to-end development of mission critical software (MCS) for UAV and Loitering Munitions, including Autonomous Flight Contol Systems, GCS Software, Payload integrations, Communication stacks, Swarming Architectures, Simulators, Computer Vision & Navigation and AI-enabled mission applications. Key Responsibilities Software Architecture & Development Lead architecture, design and development of flight software, firmware development, onboard autonomy stack, mission planning and GCS applications. 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 Strong programming expertise in C/C++, Python, and embedded systems. 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 B.Tech/ M.Tech/ MS in Computer Science, IT, Software, AI/ML, Mechanical, Electronics, Aerospace, Robotics or related fields. 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.