OA
Forward Deployed Software Engineer
full-time•Tacoma•$120k - $200k
About this role
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Forward Deployed Software Engineer</span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Seattle, Washington</span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">About Overland AI:</span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Founded in 2022 and headquartered in Seattle, Washington, </span><a href="http://www.overland.ai/"><span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">Overland AI</span></span></a><span data-contrast="auto"> is transforming land operations for modern defense. The company leverages over a decade of advanced research in robotics and machine learning, as well as a field-test forward ethos, to deliver combined capabilities for unit commanders. Our OverDrive autonomy stack enables ground vehicles to navigate and operate off-road in any terrain without GPS or direct operator control. Our intuitive OverWatch C2 interface provides commanders with precise coordination capabilities essential for mission success. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"335551550":0,"335551620":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":0}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Overland AI has secured funding from prominent defense tech investors, including 8VC and Point 72, and built trusted partnerships with DARPA, the U.S. Army, Marine Corps, and Special Operations Command. Backed by eight-figure contracts across the Department of Defense, we are strengthening national security by iterating closely with end users engaged in tactical operations.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"335551550":0,"335551620":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":0}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Role Summary:</span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">We are looking for a field-forward, Software Engineer to deploy, operate, sustain, and iterate on autonomous ground-vehicle software systems in real operational environments. This role is ideal for someone who thrives at the intersection of software development and field operations, is comfortable debugging systems live on vehicles, and enjoys working directly with end users to deliver mission-ready autonomy.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">This is not a desk-only role. You will spend significant time deployed at test sites, customer locations, and operational events, working hands-on with autonomous systems, diagnosing software and system-level issues, and ensuring platforms perform reliably in challenging, real-world conditions.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Responsibilities:</span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Deploy and Field-Test Systems:</span></strong> <br><span data-contrast="auto">Deploy, configure, and evaluate autonomy software on uncrewed ground vehicles in real-world environments. When not traveling, you will support system integration, simulation, and field testing between our Seattle and Central Washington State locations.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Sustain and Troubleshoot:</span></strong> <br><span data-contrast="auto">Debug and resolve software, autonomy, networking, and system-integration issues during deployments, often under time pressure and in resource-constrained environments. Work directly on vehicles alongside hardware engineers to diagnose failures and implement practical fixes to keep systems operational.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Develop and Iterate:</span></strong> <br><span data-contrast="auto">Contribute to autonomy, perception, and system-level software development. Incorporate feedback from field operations and end users to rapidly improve reliability, performance, and usability.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Collaborate Across Teams:</span></strong> <br><span data-contrast="auto">Partner closely with hardware engineers, autonomy engineers, product, and program managers to ensure seamless deployment and alignment with mission and end-user needs.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Document and Analyze:</span></strong> <br><span data-contrast="auto">Maintain clear documentation of field performance, bugs, and lessons learned. Provide actionable recommendations to improve software robustness and operational readiness.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Train and Support Users:</span></strong> <br><span data-contrast="auto">Act as an on-site technical expert, training operators and users on system behavior, limitations, and troubleshooting. Support operational readiness before and during deployments.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Minimum Requirements:</span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<ul>
<li data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="1" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559683":0,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1"><span data-contrast="auto">Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field, or 5–8 years of equivalent professional experience.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="1" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559683":0,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="2" data-aria-level="1"><span data-contrast="auto">Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. DoD security clearance.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li>
</ul>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Desired Experience & Qualifications:</span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<ul>
<li data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559683":0,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1"><span data-contrast="auto">Strong software engineering fundamentals with experience deploying systems beyond the lab.</span> <br><span data-contrast="auto">Proficiency in Python and/or C++. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559683":0,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="2" data-aria-level="1"><span data-contrast="auto">Experience working in Linux-based environments, including debugging software in the field.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559683":0,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="3" data-aria-level="1"><span data-contrast="auto">Familiarity with robotics and autonomous systems (e.g., ROS, autonomy stacks, distributed systems).</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559683":0,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="4" data-aria-level="1"><span data-contrast="auto">Experience integrating software with real-world hardware systems (sensors, compute, networking).</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559683":0,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="5" data-aria-level="1"><span data-contrast="auto">Understanding of autonomous system sensors such as LiDAR and cameras.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559683":0,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="6" data-aria-level="1"><span data-contrast="auto">Comfort debugging complex, system-level issues involving software, hardware, and networking.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559683":0,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="7" data-aria-level="1"><span data-contrast="auto">Ability to operate independently in challenging environments, including adverse weather and remote locations.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559683":0,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="8" data-aria-level="1"><span data-contrast="auto">Thrive in dynamic, cross-functional teams and small startup environments.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559683":0,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="9" data-aria-level="1"><span data-contrast="auto">Experience deploying software in defense technology, deep tech, robotics, or startup environments.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559683":0,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="10" data-aria-level="1"><span data-contrast="auto">Prior experience supporting software during live demos, tests, or operational events.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559683":0,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="11" data-aria-level="1"><span data-contrast="auto">Willingness to co-locate at testing sites or military installations for extended periods, both CONUS and OCONUS.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li>
</ul>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Benefits:</span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"> </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Overland AI believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<ul>
<li data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559683":0,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="12" data-aria-level="1"><span data-contrast="auto">The salary range for this position is $120K to $200K annually</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559683":0,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="13" data-aria-level="1"><span data-contrast="auto">Equity compensation </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559683":0,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="14" data-aria-level="1"><span data-contrast="auto">Best-in-class healthcare, dental and vision plans </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559683":0,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="15" data-aria-level="1"><span data-contrast="auto">Flexible PTO </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559683":0,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="16" data-aria-level="1"><span data-contrast="auto">401k with company match </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559683":0,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="17" data-aria-level="1"><span data-contrast="auto">Parental leave </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li>
</ul>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Location:</span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">This position is located in Seattle, WA. When not traveling, you will be based out of our Seattle headquarters. Frequent, extended travel is expected (>50%), including time at test sites, customer locations, and operational events, both CONUS and OCONUS.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
What you'll do
- The role involves deploying, operating, and sustaining autonomous ground-vehicle software systems in real operational environments. The engineer will work hands-on with systems, diagnosing issues and ensuring reliable performance.
About Overland AI
Ground combat is defined by unforgiving terrain, harsh conditions, and split-second decisions. At Overland AI, we enhance ground power while protecting lives.
Our OverDrive autonomy stack enables ground vehicles to navigate off-road without GPS or direct operator control, while our OverWatch C2 interface provides commanders with precisely coordinated capabilities that are vital for complex missions on the modern battlefield.
Overland AI is developing these capabilities and putting them into the hands of tactical operators today. Partnering with the U.S. Army, Marine Corps, SOCOM, DARPA, and DIU, we are delivering advanced solutions that reduce risk and empower soldiers to succeed in contested environments.
Join us in shaping the future of ground operations and national security.
Ready to join Overland AI?
Take the next step in your career journey
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Overland AI pay for a Forward Deployed Software Engineer?
Overland AI offers a competitive compensation package for the Forward Deployed Software Engineer role. The salary range is USD 120k - 200k per year. Apply through Clera to learn more about the full compensation details.
What does a Forward Deployed Software Engineer do at Overland AI?
As a Forward Deployed Software Engineer at Overland AI, you will: the role involves deploying, operating, and sustaining autonomous ground-vehicle software systems in real operational environments. The engineer will work hands-on with systems, diagnosing issues and ensuring reliable performance..
Is the Forward Deployed Software Engineer position at Overland AI remote?
The Forward Deployed Software Engineer position at Overland AI is based in Tacoma, Washington, United States. Contact the company through Clera for specific work arrangement details.
How do I apply for the Forward Deployed Software Engineer position at Overland AI?
You can apply for the Forward Deployed Software Engineer position at Overland AIdirectly through Clera. Click the "Apply Now" button above to start your application. Clera's AI-powered platform will help match your profile with this opportunity and guide you through the application process.