Flight Software Engineering Intern

About the role

The role of is centered on the development and refinement of software for uncrewed aircraft that operate at extreme velocities. You will own the implementation of core software components within the A-GRA (OMS/UCI) framework, directly contributing to the advancement of interoperable systems and robust messaging architectures. This internship spans sixteen weeks, aligning with the fall semester from August through December, and demands a high level of engagement and technical rigor. Your work will focus on ensuring that flight-critical software behaves predictably under the demanding conditions of high-speed flight operations. You will be responsible for translating complex operational requirements into precise software guidance that interfaces seamlessly with physical hardware systems. The position provides an opportunity to work alongside defense-focused engineering teams on systems that support national strategic objectives. You will contribute to projects that enable warfighters and allies with capabilities that maintain a durable, asymmetric advantage in contested environments. Success in this role requires a commitment to quality, an understanding of safety-critical contexts, and a dedication to delivering software that performs when it matters most.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Design input pipelines that sanitize and normalize sensor readings before they reach processing units.
• Construct core modules that convert abstract operational requirements into executable guidance for hardware actuators.
• Review communication sequences to verify strict protocol alignment with defense standards and industry best practices.
• Ship validation routines that stress messaging layers under simulated flight conditions to uncover edge-case failures.
• Partner with test crews to synchronize ground equipment timing and configuration with airborne software releases.
• Coordinate data collection points across the network so engineers can trace every command and response with full visibility.
• Implement fault handling strategies that preserve system state when external signals arrive late or out of order.
• Document software interfaces in detail so future teams can extend capabilities without rewriting foundational logic.
• Refine timing models through measurement and analysis to ensure control signals meet strict deadlines during high speed runs.
• Enable rapid iteration by keeping tooling simple, observable, and straightforward for operators who rely on it in the field.

Requirements

You must be currently enrolled in an accredited degree program and authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship. You must have completed approximately three years of study prior to the start date of the internship. You are required to possess a strong foundation in at least one systems programming language and one scripting language. The role demands the discipline to follow detailed instructions while simultaneously solving ill-defined and evolving problems. Reliable personal transportation is mandatory to ensure punctual arrival at the Atlanta office each day. You must maintain a professional demeanor and adhere to strict security protocols when handling proprietary information. The ability to read and interpret technical specifications without ambiguity is essential for success in this position. You should be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment where priorities can shift quickly based on test results and engineering findings. A methodical approach to debugging and validation is expected, with an emphasis on reproducibility and data-driven decisions. You must be willing to learn new tools and adapt to changing workflows as the team iterates on its software architecture.

Nice to have

Hands-on experience with real-time operating systems will be viewed favorably during the selection process. Familiarity with embedded boards and development kits is also considered a beneficial qualification for this role. Candidates who have worked on hardware-software integration projects will find their background aligns well with team expectations. Any exposure to communication protocols used in defense or aerospace applications will demonstrate relevant domain knowledge. Experience with simulation tools that model high-speed dynamics can provide an advantage during the interview stages. Previous participation in open source projects or collaborative engineering efforts shows an ability to work effectively within a team structure. Understanding of version control workflows beyond the basics indicates readiness to contribute on the first day. A demonstrated interest in aviation, defense technology, or advanced propulsion systems aligns with the strategic focus of the company.

Practical notes

The work is conducted on-site in Atlanta, Georgia, during a sixteen-week internship term. This position is compensated at a rate of $26.75 per hour. No international travel is required for this role. Candidates must hold authorization to work in the United States. The schedule is tailored for a student engaged in academic study, with hours designed to accommodate class commitments while supporting critical project milestones. Deadlines for application submission and interview scheduling will be published on the official portal. All interns are expected to adhere to Hermeus security policies and operational guidelines. This internship may lead to further opportunities within the company based on performance and team needs.

About the company

Hermeus is a venture-backed defense aviation company dedicated to reclaiming the lost art of rapid iterative prototyping. The organization focuses on building the fastest aircraft in the world today through relentless hardware iteration and disciplined engineering. This approach allows the delivery of high-speed systems at the pace required by the modern battlefield. The company collaborates with the Department of War to provide high-speed capabilities essential for national security. These capabilities are vital for maintaining a durable, asymmetric advantage for the nation and its allies. The mission extends beyond hardware to include software that ensures these systems operate reliably in the most demanding environments.

You will refine designs, validate performance, and turn ideas into flying hardware quickly and safely. This internship places you at the intersection of software engineering and aviation, where your contributions will directly influence how test flights are executed and monitored. You will work with sensors, communication links, and control surfaces to ensure that software behaves as intended from the lab to the flight line. The role emphasizes clarity, simplicity, and robustness in software design so that complex high-speed maneuvers can be controlled with precision. By the end of the internship, you will have a deep understanding of how software supports high-speed flight and the constraints that define these systems. The experience will prepare you for future roles in defense, aerospace, or any field that demands rigorous software engineering under strict performance requirements.