Embedded Software Engineer, Aerospace & Defense
Overview
You will own the design, development, and testing of embedded software for C++, Linux, and RTOS systems, delivering mission-critical flight and defense technology. Working within a DoD aerospace program at Northrop Grumman in Chandler, AZ, you will collaborate with hardware and systems engineers to build and validate real-time control software. This contract role offers the chance to work on revolutionary systems that impact lives globally, with direct exposure to DO-178C safety standards.
What You'll Do7
- 1Design and implement embedded software for C++ on Linux and RTOS targets, ensuring real-time performance and reliability.
- 2Create unit and integration tests using Google Test and Jenkins for CI/CD pipelines, validating software against DO-178C objectives.
- 3Debug complex system issues using GDB and Valgrind, tracing defects across CAN bus and RS-232 communication layers.
- 4Drive code reviews for C++11/14 compliance and static analysis with Coverity, mentoring junior engineers in software best practices.
- 5Ship software releases with hardware-in-the-loop testing on FPGA and ARM boards, coordinating with systems engineering for integration.
- 6Optimize memory and CPU usage for ARM processors, profiling with LTTng to meet strict resource constraints.
- 7Develop scripting tools in Python to automate test procedures and data analysis for flight test campaigns.
Requirements8
- 15+ years in embedded software development with C++ and Python
- 2Deep knowledge of Linux kernel drivers and RTOS (e.g., VxWorks or FreeRTOS)
- 3Proven experience with ARM microcontrollers and CAN bus protocols
- 4Strong debugging skills using GDB, JTAG, and logic analyzers
- 5Familiarity with DO-178C or MIL-STD-1551 safety standards
- 6Experience with Git and CMake in a CI/CD environment
- 7Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field
- 8Ability to obtain a DoD Secret security clearance
Salary Insight
$90 - $95k per year
Similar open positions
Explore active roles that match your skills and interests.
Apex Systems
VerifiedEmbedded Software Engineer, Real-Time Systems & C++
You will own embedded software development for a mission-critical defense program in Chandler, Arizona. You will design, code, and test real-time computer software using C++ and Python, integrating with Linux and VxWorks environments. You will collaborate with a multi-discipline team to drive requirements through architecture, implementation, and verification. This role requires an active Secret Clearance and offers direct impact on fielded systems.
REC_RTX_Ext_Gateway
VerifiedPrincipal Program Protection Engineer Embedded Software Engineer
Lead software assurance efforts to develop and deploy critical capabilities for warfighters using Agile methods. Drive system integrity through design and development of hardened applications. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure hardware meets software requirements. Shape future of aerospace and defense.
Actalent
VerifiedEngineer Embedded Software 3
Design and develop mission critical embedded software for advanced flight space and ground systems. Lead creation of software operating in constrained environments with real time requirements. Deliver high reliability solutions for complex data analysis routing and control systems. Seeking engineer with strong technical background to contribute to product software development.
Technology Service Corporation
VerifiedSenior Embedded Software Engineer TSC
Design and ship modular high-performance embedded software for RF sensor products and systems. Lead technical efforts across multidisciplinary teams. Foster innovation through collaboration with product management and engineering.
Actalent
VerifiedSenior Software Engineer, Embedded C++ & Munitions
You will lead embedded software development for advanced munitions programs in a defense organization. You will own technical execution across multiple contracts, from design through integration and test. You will split your time between hands-on coding and technical leadership, mentoring engineers and coordinating with cross-functional teams. This role offers direct impact on weapon systems and requires U.S. Citizenship with ability to obtain Secret Clearance.
TrellisWare Technologies
VerifiedSoftware Engineer Embedded Linux Uncrewed Aircraft Systems
TrellisWare Technologies seeks a hybrid Software Engineer specializing in Embedded Linux for uncrewed aircraft systems. This role drives innovation in next generation self-networking drones for defense forces. Responsibilities span designing embedded Linux applications and collaborating across state-of-the-art labs. The position emphasizes technical excellence and teamwork.