Build the autonomy and perception systems that enable our interceptors to detect, track, and defeat threats in contested environments.
About Praetorian
Praetorian Aeronautics builds advanced autonomous aerial systems and AI-enabled command and control to defend against the rapidly evolving threat of drone warfare.
Headquartered in Adelaide, we are developing an integrated ecosystem of counter-autonomy systems:
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Arrow – a high-speed VTOL interceptor designed for beyond-visual-range kinetic neutralisation of multiple UxS threats
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Dagger – a modular interceptor for long-range, high-altitude kinetic neutralisation of UxS targets
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Hadrian – an AI-enhanced command and control system enabling operators to deploy interceptors at scale
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Venator – a long-endurance autonomous mothership UAS that deploys interceptors and extends operational reach
Together, these systems enable defence operators to detect, assess, and defeat autonomous threats while maintaining situational dominance in contested environments.
Why This Role Matters
Modern conflict is increasingly defined by autonomous systems operating in degraded or denied environments. Interceptors must navigate, sense, and engage with limited external support.
This role focuses on building the autonomy and guidance capabilities that make that possible—enabling reliable detection, tracking, and engagement of real-world threats under operational constraints.
The Role
You will join the Effectors team, reporting to the Chief of Effectors, to design and implement autonomy and guidance capabilities for Praetorian’s interceptor platforms.
You’ll develop algorithms for perception, navigation, and engagement in GPS- and communications-denied environments, and translate them into high-quality, field-ready code. Your work will be validated through simulation (SITL/HITL), integrated into prototype systems, and tested in live flight environments before transitioning to production.
What You’ll Do
- Develop autonomy and guidance algorithms for interceptor platforms, including optical and IR-based tracking
- Implement perception systems for end-to-end interception missions in contested environments
- Design trajectory planning approaches for effective terminal engagement
- Build sensor fusion and state estimation systems for operation under degraded or uncertain inputs
- Develop and validate capabilities in SITL and HITL environments, progressing to live flight testing
- Collaborate with software engineering to transition prototypes into robust, deployable systems
What We’re Looking For
- Experience developing autonomy, robotics, computer vision, or guidance systems, with the ability to translate theory into working solutions
- Proficiency in Python and at least one lower-level language (C, C++, or Rust)
- Experience working with simulation-based development environments (SITL/HITL)
- Strong understanding of perception, state estimation, or control systems in real-world conditions
- Degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Aerospace, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience)
Nice to Have
- Experience with ArduPilot, PX4, or ROS
- Background in EO/IR perception or tracking systems
- Exposure to defence, aerospace, or autonomous systems
Security & Compliance Requirements
Due to the nature of our work with defence and national security partners, the successful applicant will need to undergo a National Police Check, be eligible to obtain and maintain an Australian Government Security Clearance, and comply with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).
