Firestorm

System Architect

San Diego, USA · Principal

No sponsorship$160k-$185kDetected 85 days ago

Distributed SystemsFull-Stack DevelopmentERPSystems EngineeringLeadershipCollaboration

About the role

This is a software systems architect role, not a classical systems engineering role.
You are expected to write code, read code, and go deep into the software - data models, API contracts, service boundaries, optimization formulations, edge-to-cloud protocols - wherever the architectural question requires depth.

Own the reference architecture for the manufacturing software system end-to-end: product definition, platform, edge, automation, intelligence modules, and the integration contracts between them.
Author the system-level design documents that engineers build against - reference architectures, canonical data models, API contracts, integration specifications.
Write production code where it matters - proof-of-concept implementations that prove a design works, critical path contributions when the architecture is load-bearing, and reviews that hold the line on system coherence.
Partner closely with the Principal Engineer on how architecture lands in engineering execution, and with the department head on how architecture informs roadmap and strategy.
Partner with Applied AI engineers to devise optimization models, and with Full Stack engineers to redesign data schemas.
As a System Architect, you own the end-to-end software system architecture that turns a product design into a manufactured aircraft.
Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.

Must have manual dexterity to operate standard machine equipment as well as standard office equipment.

Prior experience architecting software systems for manufacturing, aerospace, defense, industrial IoT, or other hardware-connected domains.
Hands-on experience with scheduling, planning, or resource allocation optimization - MILP, constraint programming, or heuristic approaches.
Familiarity with MES, PLM, ERP, or similar enterprise manufacturing systems and their integration patterns.
Experience designing systems for regulated deployment environments (FedRAMP, ITAR, air-gapped DoD).
This role requires use of standard office equipment and may involve exposure to loud noise, heat, cold, dust, or chemicals (with PPE).
This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments.
May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment.
This is a fast-paced work environment and requires cross departmental collaboration with independent and team-based responsibilities.

$160,000 - $185,000 USD The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs.
Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.
We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth.
In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees.
Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.
We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.

We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth.
In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees.
Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more.

Firestorm is building the next generation of uncrewed aircraft and the advanced manufacturing systems that deliver them at speed.
The Software Integration & Operations department owns the software layer that spans factory floor to cloud - the applications, automation, edge systems, and intelligence that make it possible to iterate product designs, automate advanced manufacturing, and scale production with uncompromising quality and rigor.
Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work.

Statement Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.
We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.
Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment.

Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations 10+ years of software engineering experience, with a substantial portion of that time spent architecting, implementing, and shipping integrated so

This listing is sourced directly from Firestorm's careers page and normalized into a canonical job model.