Lead Airborne Systems Software Architect

University Corporation for Atmospheric Research; Broomfield (CO); On-site; USD 138,000 - 173,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision, and Short &  

Generous retirement plan - UCAR 10%

Minimum 20 days PTO

10 paid holidays

12 weeks parental leave

FAMLI Leave

Tuition Assistance Program

PSLF eligible employer

Job summary

University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR) seeks a Lead Airborne Systems - Software Engineer IV to guide architecture, data pipelines, and real-time airborne data systems at the RAF. You will shape software directions, mentor engineers, and ensure robust mission-critical operations during flight campaigns.

The role requires strong C++/Python under Linux, kernel/driver experience, and cybersecurity. Expect irregular hours, field deployments, and domestic travel as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in computer-related field and 12+ years of relevant experience or equivalent mix.
• Experience with cross-platform GUI development (Qt preferred).
• Experience handling airborne or atmospheric observations or GIS datasets.
• Hands-on familiarity with Python scientific stack and R.

Responsibilities

• Set the strategic direction and architecture for RAF airborne software ecosystem.
• Lead real-time data acquisition, instrument control, and flight software modernization.
• Supervise software engineers, enforce CI/CD, tests, and version control.
• Oversee automated data quality tools, flag generation, and post-flight processing.
• Lead field deployment operations and on-call support during flight campaigns.
• Maintain cybersecurity posture and secure coding practices across systems.

Skills

C++

Python

Linux

Git

Unit testing

CI/CD

Docker

Shell scripting

Real-time systems

Embedded Linux

Education

Bachelor's degree in computer-related field

Tools

Linux kernel driver development

PCIe/USB/Serial DAQ interfaces

Embedded Linux platforms

Job description

University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR) seeks a Lead Airborne Systems - Software Engineer IV to guide architecture, data pipelines, and real-time airborne data systems at the RAF. You will shape software directions, mentor engineers, and ensure robust mission-critical operations during flight campaigns.

The role requires strong C++/Python under Linux, kernel/driver experience, and cybersecurity. Expect irregular hours, field deployments, and domestic travel as needed.