C++ Software Engineer – Applications & SystemsForterra

About Forterra

At Forterra, we are unleashing autonomy at scale to transform the battlefield. Our mission is to build the foundational platforms that enable an intelligent ecosystem to coordinate, adapt, and execute with speed and precision even in the uncertainty and disruption of modern conflict. In an era marked by rapid technological change and evolving threats, we design for flexibility, survivability, and operational dominance.

Forterra delivers weapons, sensors, and battlefield effects through integrated autonomous networks reaching operational areas faster, safer, and without placing human lives at risk. Our systems operate with distributed control, dynamic routing, and real-time responsiveness, enabling sustained advantage across complex mission environments.

About the role

We are seeking a C++ Software Engineer – Applications & Systems to join our Command, Control, & Communications team. This team develops TerraLink, Forterra’s core user interface and control software for autonomous ground vehicles. TerraLink provides real-time situational awareness, vehicle monitoring, and direct command-and-control capabilities in both defense and commercial settings. 

In this role, you will work on complex native applications as well as the system integration layer that ties TerraLink into Forterra’s autonomy platform. You’ll design and deliver user-facing features in Qt/QML, while also implementing backend components for messaging, networking, and vehicle integration. 

What you'll do

• Design, implement, and maintain advanced C++ applications in a Linux environment 

• Build intuitive, performant user interfaces with Qt and QML 

• Develop backend integration with autonomy systems, including messaging, networking, and data exchange 

• Contribute to graphics programming, real-time data visualization, and operator workflows 

• Collaborate with a cross-functional team to deliver vehicle interface modules, networking features, and mission-critical UI components 

• Promote software quality, maintainability, and reliability in production environments 

• Document software designs and features to support operational use 

Qualifications

• BS in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent practical experience) 

• 4+ years of professional software development experience 

• Strong proficiency in modern C++ and application development 

• Experience developing in Linux-based environments 

• Proven ability to design and deliver complex, feature-rich applications 

• Strong collaboration and communication skills; self-motivated and effective in a fast-paced environment 

Preferred Qualifications

• Qt / QML for UI and front-end application development 

• Graphics programming and real-time visualization 

• Experience with GIS rendering and map-based visualization 

• Networking (protocols, Linux networking, multicast/broadcast, routing, etc.) 

• DDS or other publish/subscribe messaging middleware 

• Experience with video processing pipelines (e.g., GStreamer) 

• Build and dependency management (CMake, Conan, Git) 

• Background in robotics, automotive, or defense/tactical software systems 

• Familiarity with test-driven development and CI pipelines 

• Bonus: experience with Python, or JavaScript 

Education & Experience

• BS in computer science or a related field, or equivalent amount of relevant industry experience.
• 4+ years of industry experience.

US Salary Range
 $130,000—$165,000
 

The salary range for this role is an estimate and is based on a wide variety of compensation factors. The salary offered to candidates will vary based on a variety of factors including (but not limited to) relevant work experience, education, specialized training, critical expertise, training, and more. Equity in Forterra is included in most of our full-time, high-demand roles and is therefore considered part of Forterra’s overall compensation package. In addition to base salary and equity, Forterra offers competitive benefits for full-time employees including:

• Premium Healthcare Benefits: Three plan options, including an HSA-eligible plan, with Forterra covering 80% of the plan premium for you and your dependents.  
• Basic Life/AD&D, short and long-term disability insurance, Legal & ID protection plans 100% covered by Forterra, plus the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your dependents.
• Extremely generous company holiday calendar including a winter break in December.
• Competitive paid time off (PTO) offering 20 days accrued per year.
• A minimum of 7 weeks fully paid parental leave for birth/adoption. 
• A $9k annual tuition reimbursement or professional development stipend.
• Fully stocked beverage refrigerators with all the Celsius your little heart desires. 
• 401(k) retirement savings plan, including traditional, Roth 401(k), and after-tax deferral with company match up to 4%.

Your recruiter will be able to share more information about our salary and benefits offering during the hiring process.  

CLEARANCE ELIGIBILITY - This position may require eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance. For more information about U.S. Security Clearances: click here.   

Forterra is an equal-opportunity employer, providing and promoting equal employment opportunity in all personnel practices. Forterrans are unique, talented individuals who are united through a shared passion to deliver autonomous systems that enable national resilience and a robust supply chain.  

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any factor, including veteran and disability status, and criminal history, in accordance with applicable local, state, and federal laws.

Forterra is also committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. Please let your recruiter know if you need an accommodation at any point during the interview process.

To see Forterra’s candidate data privacy policy, please visit Forterra Legal | Job Applicant Privacy Notice. 

The pay range for this role is:
130,000 - 165,000 USD per year(ARC)



Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

PI281498725