Principal Software Engineer

Sierra Nevada Corporation; Englewood (CO); Hybrid; USD 165,010 - 226,889; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) with 150% match

3 weeks paid time off

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Sierra Nevada Corporation is seeking a senior software engineer in Englewood, Colorado, to provide technical leadership and strategic direction for the development of advanced software systems. Candidates should have over 14 years of experience in software development and be proficient in programming languages such as C++, Java, or Python. A current U.S. Security Clearance is required.

The position offers a competitive salary range from $165,010 to $226,889 and includes comprehensive benefits such as medical, dental, and vision plans, along with a 401(k) plan with a generous matching contribution.

Qualifications

• 14+ years of experience in software development with relevant degrees.
• Expert proficiency in programming languages such as C++, Java, or Python.
• Demonstrated knowledge of engineering principles and practices.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership and strategic direction for software systems.
• Manage system architecture and technical direction.
• Conduct high-level code reviews and provide strategic feedback.

Skills

C++

Java

Python

Leadership

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Agile/Scrum

Agentic coding tools

Software development methodologies

Job description

Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership and strategic direction for the development of advanced software systems.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to ensure software meets performance, quality, and regulatory standards.
• Lead the creation and maintenance of detailed software documentation, including design specifications and user manuals.
• Mentor and guide engineering teams on technical best practices and innovation.
• Conduct high‑level code reviews and provide strategic feedback.
• Define and implement software requirements and specifications in collaboration with stakeholders.
• Drive major continuous improvement initiatives to enhance software performance and reliability.
• Represent the software engineering function in high‑level strategic meetings and decision‑making processes.
• Manage system architecture and technical direction.
• Oversee code quality and review practices.
• Define and maintain the team’s development workflow.

Qualifications – Must Have

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field; Master’s degree preferred.
• 14+ years of experience in software development (higher level relevant degrees may substitute for experience).
• Expert proficiency in programming languages such as C++, Java, or Python.
• Extensive leadership experience in software development.
• Demonstrated knowledge of engineering principles and practices.
• Experience working in multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience with agentic coding tools.
• Current/Active Secret U.S. Security Clearance.

Qualifications – Preferred

• Expertise in advanced software technologies (e.g., AI, machine learning, cloud computing).
• Significant experience in the Aerospace and Defense industry.
• Understanding of industry standard software languages such as C, C#, HTML, Python, Bash.
• Experience with software tools for requirements tracking, code reviews, static analysis, library and artifact repository, and automated build.
• Knowledge of software development methodologies such as Agile/Scrum, Waterfall, and Spiral.
• Proficiency with data structures.
• Understanding of compliance, security and ethical use of AI coding tools.

Essential Functions

• Ability to work on a computer for extended periods and possess hand/finger dexterity for coding and testing.
• Ability to work in a hybrid environment with occasional travel.
• Physical ability to perform duties necessary for the role, including the use of computer equipment and handling of software documentation.

Salary and Benefits

Estimated starting salary range: $165,010.21 – $226,889.04. Compensation varies based on candidate skills, experience, and education. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision plans; 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%; life insurance; 3 weeks paid time off; tuition reimbursement; and additional benefits as described by the employer.

Eligibility

Position requires current/active Secret U.S. Security Clearance and U.S. citizenship. Non‑U.S. citizens may not be eligible to obtain a security clearance.

Equal Opportunity Employment

SNC is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to an environment free of discrimination. Employment decisions are made based on merit, without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.