Field Applications Engineer

About the role

9-mothers develops autonomous counter-drone technology to neutralize immediate aerial threats. We are looking for a hands-on engineer to bridge the gap between our lab prototypes and real-world field performance. You will lead system demonstrations for government partners and ensure our hardware operates reliably in high-stakes environments.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Execute live flight and target-tracking demonstrations for end users and stakeholders.
• Assemble and prepare autonomous edge-compute hardware for field testing.
• Calibrate sensors, including thermal and EO cameras, and perform boresighting.
• Flash software builds and conduct integration testing to verify system readiness.
• Diagnose and repair hardware, networking, or software failures during field trials.
• Collect telemetry and user feedback to guide our internal engineering iterations.

Requirements

• Demonstrated experience operating or troubleshooting complex hardware and software in live test environments.
• Proficiency with Linux CLI, firmware flashing, and networking diagnostics.
• Ability to perform physical hardware repairs, including cable assembly and use of multimeters or oscilloscopes.
• Capacity to work outdoors in various terrains and weather conditions.
• U.S. citizenship is mandatory due to ITAR export control regulations.
• Ability to pass a background check.

Nice to have

• Background in robotics, UAS, or counter-UAS operations.
• Experience with RF sensors, thermal optics, or embedded Linux platforms like NVIDIA Jetson.
• Prior work in defense startups or military flight test operations.
• Existing security clearance or eligibility to obtain one.
• Personal interest in building electronics or robotics.

Skills & tools

• Linux shell
• TCP/IP networking
• Sensor calibration
• Hardware troubleshooting (oscilloscopes, multimeters)
• Firmware deployment

Practical notes

• Benefits include 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision premiums, 50% coverage for dependents, and unlimited PTO.
• Relocation assistance is available for the right candidate.
• The interview process includes a phone screen, a virtual technical evaluation, and a final 6-hour onsite session in Austin involving a hands-on project and architecture review.