Unmanned Aircraft Computer Vision AI/ML Engineer

Zone 5 Technologies - San Luis Obispo, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

Hybrid - San Luis Obispo, CA

Transportation Equipment Manufacturing

About the position

Zone 5 Technologies is seeking a highly skilled AI/ML Engineer specializing in computer vision for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). This role focuses on developing and deploying AI/ML algorithms to enhance UAV capabilities in areas such as autonomous navigation, obstacle avoidance, object recognition, and real-time decision-making. The engineer will collaborate with software and hardware teams to ensure seamless integration of AI models into UAV platforms, contributing to the advancement of UAS technology.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement computer vision algorithms for real-time image and video processing, including object detection, classification, segmentation, and tracking.
• Develop models for obstacle detection, avoidance, and autonomous navigation.
• Create algorithms for Visual SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) to enable UAVs to navigate and map environments.
• Develop and train AI/ML models using techniques like deep learning, reinforcement learning, and transfer learning for UAV applications.
• Optimize models to run efficiently on edge computing platforms for real-time decision-making onboard UAVs.
• Design AI-driven solutions for specific use cases, such as surveillance, search and rescue, agriculture, or delivery services.
• Work closely with hardware teams to integrate vision-based AI/ML models with UAV camera systems, sensors, and control software.
• Conduct simulations, field tests, and performance tuning to ensure AI models perform optimally in diverse environments and weather conditions.
• Collect, preprocess, and label large datasets from UAVs (images, video, sensor data) to train AI/ML models.
• Perform data augmentation and preprocessing techniques to improve model robustness in varying conditions (lighting, altitude, terrain).
• Optimize AI/ML models for low-latency, real-time processing on resource-constrained UAV systems.
• Implement techniques to reduce the energy consumption and computational load of AI systems on UAVs.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including software, hardware, and aerospace engineers to integrate AI/ML solutions into broader UAV systems.
• Prepare technical documentation, research papers, and reports on AI/ML model development and UAV system performance.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or a related field; Ph.D. in a relevant area is a plus.
• Strong expertise in computer vision techniques and machine learning algorithms (object detection, segmentation, tracking).
• Proficiency in programming languages like Python, C++, and libraries such as OpenCV, TensorFlow, PyTorch.
• Experience with deep learning frameworks (e.g., YOLO, ResNet, Mask R-CNN) and reinforcement learning algorithms.
• Experience developing with the Nvidia Jetpack toolset and Nvidia Jetson hardware.
• CI/CD experience with GitHub actions, Docker images, and AWS tools for automated testing and deployment.
• Deep background in developing and debugging Linux based systems and bash scripting.
• Knowledge of UAV systems and autonomous flight dynamics is a plus.
• Experience with edge computing, optimizing models for embedded systems, and working with GPUs.
• 3+ years of experience in AI/ML development, preferably with a focus on computer vision.
• Hands-on experience working with UAVs, drones, or other autonomous systems is highly desirable.
• Proven experience in deploying AI/ML models on embedded platforms for real-time applications.

Nice-to-haves

• Familiarity with UAV control systems, sensors (LiDAR, GPS, IMUs), and camera technologies.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and capacity to work in a dynamic R&D environment.
• Ability to work in multidisciplinary teams and communicate complex ideas to non-technical stakeholders.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance fully paid for by the company.
• 401K plan with company match.
• 4 weeks paid time off.
• 12 paid holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and advancement.
• Access to cutting-edge UAV technology and training.
• Work in a dynamic and growing industry with exciting career prospects.