Senior Principal Software Engineer - Embedded Communications (Onsite)

Choosecolumbusga; Cedar Rapids, Northern (IA, KY); Hybrid; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Collins Aerospace in Cedar Rapids, IA, is seeking a Senior Principal Software Engineer for embedded communications onsite. You will design and implement secure, real-time software for mission-critical systems used by pilots and soldiers, including software-defined radios and cryptographic components.

You will work with top engineers, shape the future of secure communications, and ensure compliance with DoD security standards in demanding environments.

Qualifications

• Requires US citizenship and ability to obtain/maintain DoD clearance.
• Expertise in embedded software for real-time communications systems.
• Strong collaboration with cross-functional teams in defense programs.

Responsibilities

• Develop and integrate embedded software for secure real-time comms.
• Lead technology exploration in SDRs, networking, cryptography.
• Collaborate with hardware and security teams to meet DoD requirements.

Skills

Embedded software

Real-time systems

Secure communications

Collaboration

Job description

Senior Principal Software Engineer - Embedded Communications (Onsite)

Marketing & Communications, Software Engineering

Date Posted: 2026-08-17

Country: United States of America

Location: US-IA-CEDAR RAPIDS-137 ~ 855 35Th St NE ~ BLDG 137

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

At RTX, the world's largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world’s most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world.

Collins Aerospace is a leader in technologically advanced, intelligent solutions that help redefine the aerospace and defense industry. With a comprehensive portfolio and deep technical expertise, we help customers meet the demands of the global market. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.

At Collins Aerospace, we don’t just build technology—we engineer mission success. Our Communication Systems teams are on the front lines of innovation, designing and delivering cutting‑edge embedded communication solutions that keep military forces around the world safe, connected, and informed—no matter the environment.

We’re looking for a Senior Principal Software Engineer who’s ready to make an impact. In this role, you won’t just write code, you’ll help shape the future of secure communications. From software‑defined radios and advanced networking to state‑of‑the‑art cryptographic systems and open system platform software, your work will drive critical real‑time communications that enable pilots and soldiers to securely share voice, video, and data when it matters most.

Here, you’ll collaborate with top‑tier engineers and industry experts, leveraging advanced technologies to push the boundaries of what’s possible. Whether you're building trusted systems or breaking ground on new innovations, your contributions will directly support mission‑critical operations across the globe.

If you're passionate about solving complex challenges, excited by the idea of working on systems that truly matter and driven to grow alongside some of the brightest minds in the field—we want you