Job title: Principal Software Engineer - AutonomyLocation: Fareham, HampshireResponsible to: Autonomy and Control DirectorLiaison with: All Kraken staff, sub-contractors, customers, and suppliersRole overview: To lead the software development of a high-level autonomy capability to be deployed to all Kraken autonomous vehicles. This is a diverse RandD-led role covering vessel guidance, mission frameworks and behaviours, obstacle avoidance, and other high-level capabilities including modern AI techniques.Most development will require strong expertise with C++, Python, ROS/ROS2, DDS, and embedded Linux environments. You will be responsible for designing, implementing, and optimising autonomy algorithms and systems in both experimental and production settings. You should be comfortable handling complex workloads across RandD, prototyping, and mission-critical production deployments.Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Lead the development and implementation of high-level autonomous behaviours for unmanned vehicles.Design and optimise algorithms for obstacle avoidance, path planning, and mission-level autonomy.Work extensively with ROS2, DDS, and Linux-based systems to develop robust autonomy software.Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including perception, navigation, and hardware engineers, to integrate autonomy solutions.Develop and maintain high-quality, well-documented code using C++ and Python.Conduct rigorous testing and validation of autonomy sof