Build the software behind Hadrian, Praetorian’s AI-enhanced command and control system coordinating autonomous defence against drone swarms.

About Praetorian

Praetorian Aeronautics builds advanced autonomous aerial systems designed to protect and defend against the rapidly evolving threat of drone warfare. Headquartered in Adelaide, with offices in Melbourne and Darwin, we develop an integrated ecosystem of counter-autonomy systems spanning high-speed interceptors for kinetic neutralisation of drone threats at range, and AI-enhanced command and control systems that let operators deploy interceptors at scale. Together, these systems enable defence operators to detect, assess, and defeat autonomous threats while maintaining situational dominance in contested environments.

Why This Role Matters

Drone swarms represent one of the fastest-growing threats in modern warfare. Hadrian provides the command and control layer that allows operators to understand swarm behaviour, plan responses, and coordinate autonomous interceptors.

As a Software Engineer on Hadrian, you’ll help build the platform that turns advanced autonomy research into operational defence capability.

The Role

You’ll develop core services and systems within the Hadrian platform that support swarm analysis, mission coordination, and operational decision-making.

Working in Rust,



you’ll contribute to the command-and-control software that connects Praetorian’s autonomous defence systems and enables them to operate together in complex environments.

What You’ll Do

- Develop high-performance services supporting counter-UAS operations
- Work with AI researchers to integrate algorithms into operational software
- Build and maintain Rust applications and services on Linux
- Test and optimise software to ensure reliability in operational environments

What We’re Looking For

- 8+ years experience writing efficient system-level software
- Robust programming experience in Rust, C++ or similar languages
- A degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent experience
- Experience contributing to complex or distributed software systems
- Strong understanding of software architecture and development practices

Nice to Have

- Experience with embedded Linux or cross-platform system development
- Experience working with Nix
- Experience programming in Python
- Experience with autonomous systems, robotics, or unmanned vehicles
- Immediate mode UI experience

Security & Compliance Requirements

Due to the nature of our work, candidates must be eligible to work in Australia and hold citizenship of Australia or another Five Eyes nation (Australia, United States, United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand). Security clearance is not required for this role.

📌 Senior Software Engineer (Melbourne)
🏢 Praetorian Aeronautics
📍 Melbourne