Software Engineer – (USV/ASV)
Are you interested in building real-world autonomy systems that operate in some of the most challenging environments on the planet?
I’m working with a venture-backed maritime defence startup developing next-generation autonomous surface vessels (ASVs) designed to protect critical infrastructure and redefine naval capability.
This is a hands-on autonomy role, focused on building and deploying path planning and decision-making systems directly onto operational USVs.
What you’ll be doing:
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Designing and implementing advanced path planning algorithms (graph-based, APF, etc.)
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Working with edge compute systems to enable real-time decision making in constrained environments
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Building robust deployment pipelines for software running on live vehicles
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Integrating data from multi-sensor systems to drive autonomy and navigation
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Testing and refining algorithms in simulation and real maritime environments
What they’re looking for:
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Strong experience with path planning / navigation algorithms
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Hands-on experience with Linux (ideally embedded / Yocto environments)
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Experience working with sensor integration and real-world robotics systems
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Strong programming skills (C++, Python)
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Someone comfortable operating in a fast-moving, engineering-led environment
Nice to have:
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NVIDIA Holoscan / real-time compute exposure
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Maritime, USV, or robotics experience
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Experience deploying software to edge / embedded systems
Why this role?
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Small team, high ownership and real impact
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Work on physical autonomous systems, not just simulations
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See your work deployed in real-world maritime operations
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Be part of a company aiming to fundamentally change naval capability
Please reach out to callum.stephens@darwinrecruitment.com to find out more.
Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

