Senior Principal Software Engineer (REQ 352)

Applied Physical Sciences Corp (APS); Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

Applied Physical Sciences Corp (APS) in Arlington, VA seeks a Senior Principal Engineer to architect cross-program communications and drive strategic initiatives. You will lead development of complex command-and-control interfaces, simulations, and embedded systems across programs, influencing roadmaps and standards.

The role requires a BS, MS, or PhD in a related field with extensive leadership experience and the ability to obtain a DoD secret clearance.

Qualifications

• BS/MS/PhD with multiple years of leadership in complex proposals and projects.
• Experience leading cross-program capabilities and strategic initiatives.
• Strong background in software architecture and embedded systems.

Responsibilities

• Architect cross-program communications and networking capabilities with strategic impact
• Lead the most complex command-and-control interfaces, simulations, and visualizations spanning organizations
• Champion advanced algorithms for signal processing, autonomy, and embedded systems; set company-wide standards
• Direct integration strategies for distributed or real-time systems across programs; ensure robust performance
• Lead high-impact proposal efforts and strategic initiatives; influence technical roadmaps company-wide

Skills

C++

Rust

Python

Linux

Software design principles

Security clearance

Education

BS in CS/Engineering/Applied Math/Physics

MS in CS/Engineering/Applied Math/Physics

PhD in CS/Engineering/Applied Math/Physics

Tools

Git

CI pipelines

Docker

Kubernetes

Unity

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a Senior Principal Engineer to join our team in Arlington, VA. Candidates should hold a BS (15+ years), MS (12+ years), or PhD (9+ years) with a proven record of leading high-complexity, high-impact proposals and projects. You will architect cross-program capabilities and drive strategic initiatives.

Our environment emphasizes innovation, high technical standards, and an entrepreneurial mindset. Team members are encouraged to contribute ideas, take ownership of their work, and help shape solutions to complex national-level challenges.

Job Functions And Responsibilities

• Architect cross-program communications and networking capabilities with strategic impact
• Lead the most complex command-and-control interfaces, simulations, and visualizations spanning organizations
• Champion advanced algorithms for signal processing, autonomy, and embedded systems; set company-wide standards
• Direct integration strategies for distributed or real-time systems across programs; ensure robust performance
• Lead high-impact proposal efforts and strategic initiatives; influence technical roadmaps company-wide

Required Skills and Attributes

• BS or MS in computer science, engineering, applied math/physics, or a related field
• Fluency in C++, Rust, Python, or other modern programming languages
• Experience developing on Linux platforms
• Experience using modern software engineering tooling, such as git, CI pipelines, Docker, Kubernetes, and Unity
• Strong understanding of software design principles and user experience considerations
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Defense Secret Security Clearance

Preferred Skills and Attributes

• Background or interest in autonomy, networking, embedded systems, or communications theory
• Familiarity with IP/TCP/UDP networking and serial communication protocols
• Experience with NoSQL databases (e.g., MongoDB)
• Experience with Zynq SoC platforms, microcontrollers, FPGAs, VHDL, or embedded development
• Experience with autonomy or robotics frameworks such as ROS
• Experience with numerical algorithms, modeling, or real-time systems
• Fluency with TypeScript and front-end web development frameworks such as React, Angular, or Vue

APS, a wholly owned subsidiary of the General Dynamics Corporation, offers competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and comfortable working conditions. Candidates must possess or be able to obtain a DoD security clearance. Please note, obtaining a security clearance is a condition of employment which typically requires US citizenship and a thorough background investigation.

EOE: Vet/Disability

In keeping with our commitment to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO), Applied Physical Sciences invites all applicants to self-identify pre-offer as a protected veteran.