Required Skills & Experience
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience in lieu of degree). 15+ years of software engineering experience. Extensive experience designing, architecting, and implementing complex software systems. Experience with embedded software (flight, ground ops, simulation software) Expertise across multiple programming languages and software development frameworks. Proven experience leading software engineering teams and large-scale technical initiatives. Strong understanding of software development methodologies, including Agile, Scrum, and Kanban. Demonstrated ability to make high-level architectural and technical decisions. Experience overseeing technical execution across large, complex software programs. Exceptional problem-solving, project leadership, and stakeholder communication skills. Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret U.S. Security Clearance.
Nice to Have Skills & Experience
Master's degree or higher in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field. Advanced expertise with Python and C++ development. Experience with kernel-level programming, operating systems, and performance optimization. Proficiency with scripting languages such as Bash, PowerShell, or Perl. Experience with Infrastructure as Code and automation tools including Terraform, Ansible, Puppet, or Chef. Strong background with CI/CD pipelines, Jenkins, automated testing frameworks, and static analysis tools. Cloud experience with AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud Platform. Experience with Docker and Kubernetes container orchestration. Advanced database experience with MySQL, PostgreSQL, or MongoDB. Strong knowledge of networking, cybersecurity principles, and secure coding practices. Experience with JIRA, Confluence, GitHub, GitLab, or Bitbucket. Familiarity with SysML/UML and software design patterns. Proven track record mentoring engineers and leading enterprise-scale software programs from concept through deployment.
Job Description
We are seeking a Sr. Principal Software Engineer to lead the architecture, development, and delivery of mission-critical software solutions supporting advanced space systems and national security initiatives. This individual will serve as a technical leader responsible for designing and implementing complex software architectures, driving engineering strategy, mentoring development teams, and ensuring successful execution of large-scale software programs. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise across software development, systems architecture, and technical leadership, with the ability to influence program direction, technology adoption, and engineering best practices while collaborating effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
This position is a 6-month contract to hire, with an hourly rate of $85-140/hr. Benefits offered throughout contract period and upon conversion.