Robotics Software Engineer (UAV) in Oxford

At Archangel Autonomy, you will be working alongside a fun, forward-thinking experienced team to deliver transformative AI solutions. Our mission is to design and deploy AI technologies that protect, support, and enhance the work of those operating on the front lines: law enforcement, first responders, NGOs, wildlife rangers, and military personnel. We are proud to be innovators, record breakers, and practical problem solvers. We thrive on big challenges and bold ideas, pushing boundaries to create meaningful impact. Our goal is a safer, more sustainable world, where intelligent machines are not just tools but trusted partners - collaborative, reliable, and ready to assist.

The role involves working with our UAV Autonomous Navigation team, developing and testing our innovative UAV copilot system.

What you’ll own:

• Integration of our autonomy copilot to various partner autopilots and drone platforms, including software, mechanical, and electrical integration.
• Develop features on our autonomy copilot product to enhance its navigation and decision-making capabilities and support more flight platforms.
• Support rapid prototyping and integration of our products onto new fixed-wing and multirotor platforms for our in-house testing capability.

To succeed in this role, you must have:

• Experience developing code for UAV autopilots, especially Ardupilot or PX4.
• Experience developing companion compute solutions using frameworks like MAVLink, MAVSDK, or DJI Onboard SDK.
• Strong proficiency in Python and C++ with experience in Linux development environments.
• Bachelor’s degree in Robotics, Computer Science, Mechatronics, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
• Three years of work history developing software commercially.
• Eligibility and willingness to obtain UK security clearance (SC).

Nice to have:

• Experience with ROS development.
• Experience with computer vision-based positioning and navigation in UxVs (Visual Odometry, SLAM).
• Familiarity with edge-deploying code on low SWaP computers.
• Experience with simulation tools (Gazebo, Isaac-sim X-Plane, Airsim, Unreal, etc.).
• Demonstrated delivery of functioning robotic systems.
• Understanding of aerodynamics and flight dynamics as applied to UAV systems.
• UK Drone piloting license.
• Track record of contributions to open-source robotics projects or relevant publications.
• Ability to travel up to ~30% of the time to build, test, and deploy capabilities in the real world.

By joining us, you'll have:

• The ability to make a measurable difference in the creation of cutting-edge technology in a rapidly growing start-up.
• Fast-paced environment with a world-class, positive, talented, and high-achieving team.
• Forward-thinking, supportive culture with company retreats and strategic alignment.
• World-class growth opportunities and training resources including self-development days.
• An opportunity for drone pilot training.
• Merit-based compensation.
• 5% employer pension contribution.
• 25 days holiday + UK bank holidays.
• Medical Insurance.
• Relocation Support package.
• Team socials.
• A variety of perks that are evolving: Free Monday team lunch, Cycle2work scheme, annual subscription allowance.

Security clearance: Due to the sensitive nature of some of our work, it would be beneficial for candidates to be able and willing to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for this role.

This is an office-based role in Oxford. You'll work alongside leading engineers, AI specialists, and industry pioneers, contributing directly to cutting-edge advancements in autonomous technology.

The Archangel Experience: We are makers and engineers first, driven by the desire to solve challenges that matter. Automation is how humanity moves forward and for us it’s more than a method; it is a mindset central to how we streamline work and deliver cutting edge solutions that make a real difference. Our culture is grounded in high integrity, teamwork, and a shared pursuit of excellence. Learning never stops here. We prioritise growth, knowledge sharing, and collaboration so every team member is empowered to thrive. We are looking for people who are proactive, collaborative, and passionate about purpose led technology. If you are excited by meaningful challenges, thrive in fast paced environments, and want to build technology that supports solving real-world problems, you will feel right at home.