Senior Machine Learning Engineer

Who We Are:

Aurelius Systems is a dynamic defense tech startup backed by venture capital, focused on creating autonomous directed energy systems for counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS). Our mission is to develop cutting-edge laser weapons capable of neutralizing drones.

We are a tight-knit team of engineers, former US military personnel, and subject matter experts striving to enhance America’s directed energy capabilities. Our goal is to deliver the first cost-effective and dependable laser weapon systems.

The Role and Your Impact:

We are looking for a Senior Machine Learning Engineer who will take the lead on our perception stack for Archimedes, focusing on detection, tracking, classification, and sensor fusion throughout the targeting chain. You will be an experienced engineer who has successfully deployed perception technologies in real-world scenarios. You will collaborate closely with our CTO and the robotics software team while taking full ownership of perception as a critical domain.

What You'll Own:

• Designing the perception architecture, handling detection, tracking, classification, and sensor fusion.
• Developing ML models, setting up training pipelines, and deploying them on devices.
• Implementing multi-sensor fusion utilizing Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) and relevant sensors within the targeting chain.
• Optimizing real-time performance on embedded systems.
• Mentoring and guiding perception engineers as our team expands.
• Collaborating with controls, robotics software engineers, and hardware teams to ensure feasibility.

What We're Looking For:

• At least 5 years of experience in developing and deploying perception systems on actual hardware.
• Proficient in Python and C++ with extensive experience in machine learning engineering.
• Expertise in computer vision, tracking, and detection under real-world conditions.
• Experience with on-device deployment techniques, including TensorRT, ONNX, or similar frameworks.
• Proven ability in optimizing perception systems for embedded computing environments and minimizing latency.

Where You Probably Come From:

You may have held perception roles in defense sectors, autonomy programs, sensor-heavy robotics, or aerospace projects involving perception systems targeting real-world objects.

We Want to Talk if:

You have successfully deployed a perception system on real hardware facing actual targets. You understand the disparity between theoretical state-of-the-art and what remains functional in field conditions.

Not a Fit If:

Your experience is solely in research without hands-on deployment, you are a new graduate (we will have a junior role available later), or your expertise is limited to offline batch processing.

Nice to Haves:

• Experience in counter-UAS or aerial target tracking.
• Familiarity with radar or RF perception.
• Experience in classified programs.
• Knowledge of sensor fusion in challenging or denied environments.

Education:

• BS, MS, or PhD in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or a relevant field. Proven capabilities are valued more than degrees.

How You Operate:

• You maintain a strong bias for action, delivering functional perception systems rather than theoretical concepts.
• You troubleshoot using first principles, going beyond mere intuition.
• You thrive in ambiguous, fast-paced startup environments.
• You communicate effectively across software, hardware, and user-centric interfaces.
• You are self-motivated, identifying what needs to be accomplished and taking initiative without needing direction.

Why Join Aurelius Systems:

• Experience rapid development; achieve more in one month than most teams do in a year. We conduct weekly field tests, so your contributions will directly impact operations.
• Experience rapid career growth; with approximately 10 engineers, there are minimal barriers between you and influence.
• Contribute to a mission that makes a difference; our laser systems represent a revolutionary solution against the evolving warfare threats posed by small drones.
• Join the vibrant defense startup ecosystem in California, a hub for the next generation of defense technologies.

How We Work:

Our core working hours are Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM. However, when approaching a demonstration or field test, our team ramps up efforts, including nights and weekends if necessary, yet we balance that with downtime to recharge. We do not maintain intensity for show.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary with equitable compensation.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans through United Health Care.
• Flexible 18 days of paid time off (PTO) plus 5 sick days.
• Opportunities for travel to field testing events and range days.
• Daily lunches, snacks, and drinks provided.
• Stipend of up to $500 for E-bike and scooter use.
• Direct access to leadership and genuine ownership of your work.

Export Control Notice:

This role requires access to export-controlled information or items that necessitate U.S. Person status. According to U.S. law, individuals who fit any of the categories below are considered a U.S. Person: (1) U.S. citizens, (2) legal permanent residents (green card holders), and (3) specific protected classes of asylees and refugees as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).