Senior Principal Software Engineer – Satellite Flight Software (Remote)

AIRBUS U.S. Space & Defense, Inc.; Herndon (VA); On-site; USD 190,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, Inc. is seeking a Principal Software Engineer to lead development and testing of spacecraft flight software. You will own the full lifecycle, from requirements through operations, in a dynamic, small-team environment.

We expect deep expertise in C/C++, embedded systems, and GNC algorithms, with DoD clearance or eligibility. The role involves cross-functional collaboration, modeling, and proposal support, with remote-friendly opportunities in the US.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) or related fields.
• 15+ years with a bachelor's degree, or 12+ years with a master's degree.
• US citizenship and ability to obtain/maintain DoD clearance.
• Proven ability to learn quickly and work independently across teams.
• Experience with the full lifecycle of flight software from requirements to operations.

Responsibilities

• Flight Software - develop and test satellite flight software; verify and validate at unit to platform level.
• Software Integration & Test - run verifications with HIL, test plans, and document methodologies.
• Support mission concept development, modeling/simulation, and proposal work.
• Assist with documentation, versioning, bug reporting, and test plans.
• Provide guidance to cross-functional teams and customers/vendors as needed.

Skills

C/C++

GNC algorithms

Embedded software

RTOS

Cybersecurity

Device drivers

Test & verification

Flight software

Education

Bachelor's degree in STEM

Master's degree preferred

Job description

Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, Inc. is seeking a Principal Software Engineer to lead development and testing of spacecraft flight software. You will own the full lifecycle, from requirements through operations, in a dynamic, small-team environment.

We expect deep expertise in C/C++, embedded systems, and GNC algorithms, with DoD clearance or eligibility. The role involves cross-functional collaboration, modeling, and proposal support, with remote-friendly opportunities in the US.