Kratos DefenseVerified Source

Principal Software Engineer UAV Embedded C++

220K–250K
Partially · Sacramento, California
Posted August 1, 2026
payroll

Overview

You architect and implement mission-critical software for next-generation UAV flight computers. You build high-performance C++ applications that ensure deterministic control and absolute system reliability. You bridge complex flight algorithms with custom avionics hardware, collaborating with electrical and GNC engineers using MATLAB/Simulink. You mentor mid-level engineers and own the full software lifecycle from requirements to test. This role demands deep embedded systems expertise and a security clearance.

What You'll Do8

  • 1Design and develop C++ flight software for UAV flight computers, including sensor and actuator integrations.
  • 2Decompose system requirements with electrical and GNC teams to translate algorithms into reliable code.
  • 3Write software requirements specifications, design descriptions, test descriptions, and test reports per KUAS standards.
  • 4Implement and test RTOS-based software with deterministic timing and hardware-in-the-loop simulations.
  • 5Troubleshoot hardware-in-the-loop simulation models and deploy firmware updates on custom avionics.
  • 6Lead code reviews and mentor mid-level engineers on embedded software best practices.
  • 7Integrate interface controls from MBSE design documentation into flight software.
  • 8Certify software to DO-178C and AS9100 standards through rigorous documentation and testing.

Requirements8

  • 115+ years of C or C++ programming experience.
  • 23+ years aerospace, aviation, or UAV software engineering experience.
  • 3BS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related technical field (or 18 years experience in lieu).
  • 4Demonstrated understanding of Object-Oriented programming and RTOS systems.
  • 5Hands-on ability to troubleshoot hardware-in-the-loop simulation and make firmware updates.
  • 6Able to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance (requires U.S. Citizenship).
  • 7Preferred: Skills with Atlassian, MATLAB/Simulink, VxWorks, and LabView.
  • 8Preferred: Experience with OMS/UCI, A-GRA, STANAG 4586, DO-178C, AS9100, DoDI 8500.01.

Salary Insight

$220 - $250k per year

Location

Typepartially
LocationSacramento, California

Required Skills

c++matlab/simulinkrtosvxworkslabview
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