Airbus UpNext Spain – UAS Embedded Autonomy Software Developer (m/f)

Job Description:

The UAS (Uncrewed Aerial Systems) Embedded Autonomy Software Developer (M/F) position is within Airbus UpNext Spain, based in Getafe, starting ASAP, and it consists of a limited contract linked to the deliverable of the demonstrator - estimated completion date end of December 2028.

At Airbus UpNext, autonomy does not stop at an algorithm running on a laptop. It must be integrated, packaged, tested and deployed on airborne computers, where timing, interfaces and hardware constraints turn every elegant software concept into an engineering reality.

We are looking for an Embedded Autonomy Software Developer to join the FlightMind team and work under the technical direction of the Embedded Autonomy Software Lead. You will develop the software infrastructure and reusable components required to deploy autonomy functions across multiple UAS platforms.

Your work will connect ROS2 applications, model-generated software and real-time operating systems. You will help transform autonomy algorithms into robust software that can be tested in simulation, deployed on embedded hardware and ultimately flown.

If you enjoy building software that must survive real-time constraints, changing hardware, integration pressure and the occasionally dramatic personality of a flight-test campaign, this may be your boarding gate.

The Gig in a Nutshell:

Build, integrate, and automate the embedded software backbone for the FlightMind Flight Autonomy system. You will develop portable frameworks, abstraction layers, and tooling to ensure autonomy functions run seamlessly across Linux, ROS2, and safety-critical RTOS environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Embedded & RTOS Development: Design and maintain modular C/C++ and Python software components. Deploy autonomy applications in real-time, partitioned environments (POSIX, ARINC 653) while optimizing for CPU/memory usage and latency.

• ROS2 & Middleware Integration: Build and configure ROS2 nodes, topics, and QoS settings. Bridge ROS2/DDS systems with non-ROS and RTOS applications using explicit, versioned interfaces.

• Model-Based Integration & Automation: Automate code generation from MATLAB/Simulink. Build developer tooling, CI/CD pipelines, and scripts (Python, CMake) to streamline build, test, and deployment workflows.

• Platform Abstraction & Integration: Develop hardware/sensor abstraction layers to decouple autonomy software from specific target platforms. Integrate and debug software on simulation benches and airborne hardware.

Your Boarding Pass

What You Bring

• Software & Systems Expertise: Strong C/C++, Python, and Linux skills, with deep knowledge of ROS2 and embedded RTOS (e.g., PikeOS, VxWorks).

• Real-Time & Model Savvy: Solid grasp of real-time software concepts (determinism, scheduling) and automatic code generation from MATLAB/Simulink.

• DevOps & Tooling: Experience with CI/CD pipelines (GitLab, Jenkins), Docker, CMake, and automated software quality/testing tools.

• Industry Context: Background in aerospace, robotics, or autonomous systems. Familiarity with DO-178C or equivalent safety-related standards is a plus.

• The Mindset: A proactive, agile problem-solver who values technical excellence, transparency, and a fast-paced environment.

• Willingness to have fun

What you get:

• Pivotal Role in a Strategic Mission and develop Critical Competences: play a key part in a project at the forefront of the development of technology to enable UAS flight and open the way for complex missions.

• Build Something that last: Your work will create high-value assets and learning contribution for Airbus’s future.

• Work on the Edge of Technology: Explore disruptive technologies at their limits.

• Agile and Empowering Environment: Thrive in a work culture that empowers you to act and think like a start-up while being supported by the strong expertise of Airbus. We value an eagerness to take initiative and propose efficient ways of working.

• A Great Team and Culture: Be part of a high-achieving, experienced and fun team in a shared open-space office with highly skilled colleagues. We are guided by the “Care for Each Other” value.

• The responsibilities and the technical scope of the job might evolve according to the agile working environment of the project, so being flexible is important.

• Flexibility & Fun: Enjoy the ability to craft your calendar ️ with flexible hours and the opportunity to work remotely, alongside regular UpNext community bonding events. And yes, we have complimentary freshly ground coffee ☕ and beverages ?

About Us & Values

Airbus UpNext empowers you to think and act like a startup, backed by the robust expertise of Airbus. In this role, you will embody our core DNA:

• #Speed of Execution: Moving fast, prioritizing fast experimentation and agility over paperwork.

• #Be Audacious: Welcoming challenges; constantly striving to push boundaries.

• #Be Simple: Finding the most efficient, pragmatic path to success.

• #Caring for Each Other & #Be Open to the World: Building a trustful team and expanding global partnerships.

This job requires an awareness of any potential compliance risks and a commitment to act with integrity, as the foundation for the Company’s success, reputation and sustainable growth.

Company: Airbus UpNext S.L.

Employment Type: Fixed term

Experience Level: Professional

Job Family: Software Engineering

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At Airbus, we support you to work, connect and collaborate more easily and flexibly. Wherever possible, we foster flexible working arrangements to stimulate innovative thinking.