Software Engineer Integration & Swarming

CDDS AG seeks a Mid-level Software Engineer in Zürich to build integration tools and base stations for kinetic interceptor drones, ensuring NATO-compliant command and control.

This position focuses on embedding advanced control and state-estimation algorithms into high-speed kinetic interceptor drones. The engineer will construct the ground segment infrastructure that links the drone fleet to external sensors and command systems, playing a key role in a deep-tech startup dedicated to enhancing European security.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain Python services and APIs for the ground segment.
• Construct the base station infrastructure to connect the interceptor fleet with radar and other external sensors.
• Integrate drone systems with third-party command and control platforms using standard, NATO-compliant protocols.
• Ensure compatibility with Lattice and Cursor-on-Target messaging systems, including necessary plugin development.
• Create tooling for fleet management, provisioning, and field coordination.
• Monitor system performance and apply tuning adjustments as needed.

Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a closely related discipline with strong academic credentials.
• Proficient in Python programming.
• Minimum of three years of professional experience in relevant roles.
• Hands-on experience with Linux-based development environments.
• Solid understanding of software security principles.

Nice to have

• Prior experience integrating with command and control (C2) systems.
• Familiarity with open-source C2 platforms.
• Knowledge of NATO interoperability standards, such as STANAG 4817 or AEP-105.
• Experience processing radar feeds or connecting to external sensors.
• Understanding of networking protocols and secure communication methods.
• Proficiency with bash CLI.

What the company offers

• Direct contribution to mission-critical technology that influences Europe's security landscape.
• A fast-paced startup culture characterized by high ownership and rapid shifts in priorities.
• Collaboration with a highly technical, ambitious, and hands-on team.
• Opportunities for real-world testing, deployments, and customer demonstrations.
• Competitive compensation package.

About the company

CDDS AG is a rapidly growing deep-tech startup with a high-impact mission focused on Europe's security landscape. The team is highly technical, ambitious, and hands-on, operating in a fast-moving environment where priorities shift quickly and problems can change underneath you.

• Highly technical and ambitious team culture.
• Fast-moving environment with high ownership.
• Dynamic priorities and evolving problem sets.