Software Engineer (C)

You want to help build Europe’s resilience? You want to protect people and critical infrastructure – ultimately saving the lives of thousands?

You want to work at the frontier of high-performance autonomous systems?

Join us at CDDS to bring next-generation control, guidance, and state-estimation algorithms into high-speed kinetic interceptor drones.

CDDS (Counter-Drone Defense Systems) specializes in developing low-collateral kinetic interceptors designed to neutralize malicious drones. Our solutions are built for precision and safety, minimizing risk to surroundings while effectively countering unauthorized or threatening unmanned aerial systems. We work at the cutting edge of counter-drone technology, delivering reliable protection for critical assets and environments.

Tasks

Your Mission

Join us at CDDS to bring next-generation control, guidance, and state-estimation algorithms into high-speed kinetic interceptor drones.

We are looking for an all-around software developer to:

• design and improve a highly responsive architecture where latency is critical

• parallelize hot paths to make full use of multi-core hardware

• accelerate compute-heavy workloads on GPU to keep up with real-time constraints

We move at a high pace and priorities shift quickly. You should be comfortable building in an environment where the problem can change underneath you.

What you will be working on

• Writing high-quality, maintainable code under tight CPU and memory constraints
• Designing low-latency data pipelines
• Extending and customizing the PX4 flight stack
• Building and tuning our computer vision pipeline
• Monitoring and tuning system performance
• Porting Python prototypes into production-grade C++

Requirements

We are looking for people who thrive on the vision to safe lives, rapid iteration, and hands-on flight testing. You take full ownership of your subsyste, from modelling to real-world validation.

Required

• MSc or PhD in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field, with a strong anacademic record. ETH Zürich or an equivalent university is preferred.
• Strong C++ programming skills
• At least 3 years of relevant professional experience
• Experience with Linux-based development environments
• Understanding of software security fundamentals

Nice to have

• Hands-on experience profiling and optimizing C++ for CPU and memory
• Experience with CUDA or other GPU programming
• Experience with Python, particularly optimizing it for CPU and memory
• Experience with bash CLI
• Experience with PX4
• Experience with embedded systems, robotics, or drones
• Knowledge of networking protocols and secure communication

Benefits

Why CDDS

• Direct impact on mission-critical technology shaping Europe’s security landscape
• Fast-moving startup environment with high ownership
• Work with a highly technical, ambitious, and hands-on team
• Real-world testing, deployments, and customer demonstrations
• Attractive compensation

Details

• Location: Close to Zurich Hardbrücke (Zurich City)
• Start date: ASAP
• Environment: Rapidly growing deep-tech startup, high-impact mission

If your interested in the position please apply via this form.

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