Senior Software Systems Engineer — RF/Linux & Secure Ops

AeroVironment, Inc.; Maryland; On-site; USD 102,000 - 255,000; Full time

Job summary

AeroVironment, Inc. is seeking a Software Systems Engineer to blend software development, Linux systems administration, and RF-focused integration for mission-critical environments.

The role combines independent work and technical leadership, guiding junior developers and supporting RF systems and infrastructure. The position emphasizes reliability, security, and end-to-end solution operations, with strong emphasis on C/C++, Python and systemd‑based Linux environments.

Qualifications

• Active TS/SCI clearance with polygraph.
• 10+ years of relevant experience with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related technical field.
• Demonstrated experience applying DevOps concepts and tools to automate repetitive tasks, manage infrastructure as code, and ensure baseline consistency across multiple environments.
• Strong hands‑on experience installing, configuring, securing, deploying, managing, monitoring, and maintaining complex hardware and software products across multiple environments (development, test, production).
• Strong Linux skills, especially on Debian or other systemd‑based distributions, in both GUI-less and constrained environments.
• Thorough knowledge of TCP/IP networking, routing, and common network services.
• Experience supporting, installing, and configuring enclave Ethernet switches, SAN, and NAS.
• Experience with virtualization and hypervisors such as VMware ESXi and vCenter.
• Experience with KVM and related Linux virtualization technologies.
• Experience with Docker or equivalent containerization platforms.
• Experience managing and monitoring systems using tools such as Nagios.
• Experience with VPN technologies, such as WireGuard, OpenVPN, and/or Openswan, including secure configuration and troubleshooting.
• Familiarity with cellular modems on Linux platforms (configuration, troubleshooting, and integration into broader networking architectures).
• Proven ability to work independently and effectively in a fast‑paced, mission‑driven, and security‑conscious environment.
• Strong documentation skills and ability to communicate technical concepts clearly to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical direction and guidance to junior developers across multiple projects.
• Reverse engineer existing software to enable modification, enhancement, and integration of new functionality.
• Perform modeling and design activities using CASE tools.
• Develop and maintain complex, non-trivial applications using C, C++, Rust, Python, Bash.
• Develop software applications and automation for Debian or other systemd‑based Linux distributions, including advanced automation programs, system drivers, data processing scripts, and RF‑related utilities.
• Perform rapid software design and development in a Quick Reaction Capability (QRC) environment to meet operational needs on short timelines.
• Solve varied software‑related problems; design, develop, test, and deploy software on security‑sensitive / air‑gapped / cautious systems.
• Review software designs and implementations for accuracy, completeness, and appropriateness with respect to objectives, budget, schedule, and security best practices.

Skills

DevOps concepts

Linux administration

Networking TCP/IP

Python

C/C++

Docker

VMware ESXi/vCenter

KVM virtualization

Security best practices

Documentation

Education

Bachelor's degree in relevant technical field

Tools

Nagios

Docker

KVM

VMware ESXi

OpenVPN

Job description

AeroVironment, Inc. is seeking a Software Systems Engineer to blend software development, Linux systems administration, and RF-focused integration for mission-critical environments.

The role combines independent work and technical leadership, guiding junior developers and supporting RF systems and infrastructure. The position emphasizes reliability, security, and end-to-end solution operations, with strong emphasis on C/C++, Python and systemd‑based Linux environments.