Principal Software Engineer

Huntington Beach, California

Mach Industries
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About Mach Industries

Founded in 2022, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 120 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.

Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.

The Role

Mach Industries is seeking a Principal Software Engineer to design and develop advanced software systems for next-generation autonomous defense platforms. As a Principal Software Engineer, you will play a critical role in creating secure, scalable, and high-performance software solutions that power mission-critical autonomous systems. Your expertise will contribute to building reliable, rapidly deployable platforms that provide the United States with a strategic advantage in the evolving landscape of modern warfare.

At Mach Industries, we build next-generation platforms to maintain an allied American edge. The future of warfare lies in decentralized autonomous systems, and we aim to produce these platforms at scale using flexible, adaptable factories. As a Principal Software Engineer, you will work at the intersection of innovation and execution, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to craft robust software architectures that support modular, scalable production and ensure our platforms deliver adaptability, resilience, and strategic value.

Key Responsibilities
  • Design and implement mission-critical software systems for autonomous defense platforms, focusing on scalability, performance, and reliability.
  • Drive the development of software solutions from concept to deployment, including system architecture, algorithm design, coding, testing, and integration.
  • Build high-performance software that integrates with hardware platforms, such as autonomous vehicles, control systems, and sensor networks.
  • Ensure the security and resilience of software systems by applying best practices in cybersecurity, real-time performance, and fault tolerance.
  • Collaborate with engineers in guidance, navigation, control (GNC), avionics, and systems integration to optimize software for mission effectiveness.
  • Research and integrate cutting-edge technologies, such as AI/ML-driven decision-making, real-time sensor fusion, and advanced autonomy frameworks.
  • Optimize software for real-time and embedded environments, ensuring efficient operation under computational and resource constraints.
  • Contribute to the development of high-fidelity simulation environments and digital twins for software testing and validation.
  • Maintain compliance with defense industry standards and cybersecurity best practices, ensuring software meets mission-critical requirements.
Basic Qualifications
  • 8+ years of experience in software engineering, with a focus on mission-critical systems, autonomous platforms, or defense applications.
  • Expertise in programming languages such as C , Python, with strong experience in embedded systems and real-time software development.
  • Proven ability to design and implement software architectures, distributed systems, and high-performance computing solutions.
  • Experience with sensor fusion, real-time control, or AI/ML-driven autonomy.
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field. A PhD is a plus.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and a track record of delivering complex software projects on time and at scale.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience developing software for unmanned systems, robotics, or aerospace applications.
  • Familiarity with defense industry software standards, including DoD cybersecurity and compliance requirements.
  • Expertise in real-time processing, networking protocols, and distributed computing for autonomous systems.
  • Hands-on experience with AI/ML models for perception, decision-making, and optimization in autonomous systems.
  • Strong knowledge of software optimization for edge computing and resource-constrained environments.
  • Experience with simulation tools and digital twins for software testing and validation.

Disclosures

This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach's total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.

Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you'd like to defend the American way of life, please reach out.
Date Posted: 12 May 2025
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