Principal Software Engineer - Embedded Linux (Onsite)

RTX (Raytheon); Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Collins Aerospace in Cedar Rapids, IA is seeking a Principal Software Engineer focused on embedded Linux and customized OS development for mission-critical systems. You will own build toolchains, kernel, BSP, and device drivers across diverse hardware, and lead design, coding, testing and delivery of embedded Linux software.

You will collaborate with FPGA, hardware and systems teams, perform root-cause analyses, and contribute to program estimates while providing technical leadership to project

Qualifications

• Degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) with 8+ years of experience.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance; U.S. citizenship required.
• Proficiency with Bash and Python scripting.
• Proficiency with embedded C/C++ development.
• Experience with embedded Linux device drivers.
• Experience with board bring-up and target hardware integration.
• Experience debugging using hardware schematics, logic analyzers and Wireshark.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop and enhance embedded Linux software systems and OS components.
• Own build toolchain, kernel, root filesystem, bootloader and BSP across hardware.
• Contribute to design, coding, testing, delivery and support of embedded Linux systems.
• Perform root cause analysis for complex hardware-software issues.
• Prepare software builds for simulation, reference platforms and target hardware.
• Provide technical leadership and estimate effort for new programs.

Skills

Embedded C/C++

Bash/Python scripting

Embedded Linux

Debugging hardware/software

Root-cause analysis

Education

Bachelor's/Advanced STEM degree

Tools

Git

SVN

Buildroot

Job description

Date Posted: 2026-10-13

Country: United States of America

Location: US-IA-CEDAR RAPIDS-108 ~ 400 Collins Rd NE ~ BLDG 108

Position Role Type: Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements: The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued security clearance is required. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance

Security Clearance Type: DoD Clearance: Secret

Security Clearance Status: Active and existing security clearance required after day 1

Joining Collins Aerospace isn't just about finding a job; it's about embarking on a journey to redefine the future of aerospace technology.

Collins Aerospace, an RTX company, is a leader in technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defense industry. Collins Aerospace has the capabilities, comprehensive portfolio, and expertise to solve customers' toughest challenges and to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global market.

As a Principal Software Engineer in this organization, you will be involved in the development of state-of-the-art communications, information assurance, and general-purpose processing systems. The Applied Research and Technology directorate supports some of the most cutting-edge products across the enterprise. We develop innovative solutions that keep our military members safe, connected, and informed. Our team has some of the most knowledgeable experts in the industry and work with all the most recent technologies in embedded software development. Within Collins Aerospace we work alongside FPGA, hardware, and systems teams in order to seamlessly embed our advanced technology into our Mission Systems product portfolio. Examples of these products range from high-frequency radios to secure, sophisticated software-defined radios that can enable pilots and soldiers to transfer data, voice and imagery over the air.

What You Will Do

• Design, develop and continuously enhance our customized Linux OS ecosystem and maintain ownership over areas such as build toolchain, kernel, root filesystem, bootloader, device drivers, and board support package (BSP) for a wide variety of hardware boards
• Contribute to the design, coding, testing, delivery and ongoing support for embedded Linux software systems
• Participate in root cause analysis and resolution of complex hardware-software issues
• Prepare software builds for execution in a simulation environment, reference platforms and on the target hardware
• Understand and utilize the appropriate Collins Aerospace processes and tools during product development, resulting in increased product quality and improving customer satisfaction
• Contribute to engineering estimates for new program pursuits
• Provide technical leadership for project design teams by breaking down work, planning activities, and reporting status

Qualifications You Must Have

• Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and minimum 8 years prior relevant experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 5 years of experience
• The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued security clearance is required
• U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance
• Proficiency with scripting languages (Bash and Python)
• Proficiency with embedded C/C++
• Experience with embedded Linux device drivers
• Experience with board bring-up and target hardware integration
• Experience with debugging and root cause investigations using hardware schematics and tools such as logic analyzer and Wireshark

Qualifications We Prefer

• Experience with GIT and SVN version control systems
• Experience packaging custom Linux distribution with Buildroot.
• Experience in developing and maintaining Linux BSPs for embedded systems
• Development experience Agile methodologies and DevSecOps
• Experience with industry cost estimation tools such as SEER-SEM
• Able to demonstrate communication skills and an ability/desire to work in a team environment, establishing collaborative working relationships with peers and co-workers
• Adaptable to change, determined to accomplish tasks based on program schedule and contribute to a positive work environment
• Able to produce exemplary results on the projects and teams they collaborate with

What We Offer

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