Software Engineer V/VI

Zone5Technologies; United States; On-site; USD 192,000 - 267,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive total compensation package

Comprehensive benefit options

401(k) with company match

4 weeks paid time off

12 annual company holidays

Job summary

Zone 5 Technologies is seeking a principal-level C#/.NET Software Engineer to lead the design of high-assurance software for autonomous UAS platforms in the aerospace and defense sector. The ideal candidate will have 8–15+ years of experience in safety-critical systems, with strong expertise in C# and additional proficiency in C/C++ or Python.

The role involves leading software architecture, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and mentoring engineers while promoting high-quality engineering practices.

Qualifications

• 8–15+ years of professional software engineering experience in high-reliability or safety-critical systems.
• Deep expertise in C# and proficiency in real-time/embedded languages.
• Proven track record in real-time embedded software and flight-critical applications.

Responsibilities

• Lead architecture and design of software for safety-critical UAS systems.
• Drive end-to-end technical ownership of software components.
• Collaborate with teams to define requirements and integrate software.

Skills

C#

C/C++

Git/GitHub

Python

AWS

CI/CD

Job description

About the Role

At Zone 5 Technologies, we are redefining what's possible in unmanned aircraft systems. Our team of engineers and innovators is developing cutting‑edge autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology and solve complex challenges that matter.

We are building the future of UAS capabilities and are looking for an exceptional principal‑level C#/.NET software engineer with strong embedded or real‑time systems depth to lead the design and evolution of high‑assurance software for autonomous UAS platforms in the aerospace and defense sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the architecture, design, implementation, and verification of embedded and application‑level software for high‑reliability, safety‑critical UAS systems—including flight controls, mission autonomy, ground station integration, and real‑time data processing.
• Own end‑to‑end technical ownership of major software components or subsystems, driving decisions on technology stack, performance optimization, fault tolerance, and certification pathways (DO‑178C familiarity is a strong plus).
• Collaborate deeply with systems, hardware, GNC, flight test, and cybersecurity teams to define requirements, resolve cross‑domain challenges, and integrate software into full‑system flight demonstrations.
• Champion modern development excellence: architect and evolve CI/CD pipelines (GitHub Actions + AWS), automated testing frameworks, build systems, and deployment strategies for cloud‑edge hybrid environments.
• Mentor and guide mid‑level and senior engineers, conduct in‑depth code/design reviews, establish best practices, and foster a culture of rigorous, high‑quality engineering in a fast‑paced environment.
• Contribute to strategic technical roadmaps, evaluate emerging technologies (such as real‑time middleware, model‑based design, AI/ML integration for autonomy), and influence product direction for long‑range strike, counter‑UAS, and multi‑domain systems.
• Support qualification, certification, and airworthiness processes through rigorous verification, validation, and documentation in compliance with defense and aerospace standards.

Qualifications

• 8–15+ years of professional software engineering experience, with significant time spent on complex, high‑reliability or safety‑critical systems (aerospace, defense, automotive, medical devices, or similar strongly preferred).
• Deep expertise in C# (preferred) and strong proficiency in additional languages such as C/C++, Python, or Matlab/Simulink for real‑time/embedded/model‑based workflows.
• Proven track record designing and delivering real‑time embedded software, flight‑critical applications, autonomy stacks, or mission systems for UAS, drones, robotics, or related platforms.
• Advanced hands‑on mastery of Git/GitHub workflows at scale, Visual Studio, and scripting/automation (Bash, PowerShell, Python) for build/deploy/test pipelines.
• Strong experience building and optimizing CI/CD systems (GitHub Actions required; Jenkins, GitLab CI, or similar a plus) and deploying/managing software in AWS or hybrid cloud environments.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical initiatives, influence architecture across teams, and deliver under aggressive schedules in regulated industries.
• Excellent problem‑solving, communication, and collaboration skills—able to distill complex technical concepts for cross‑functional stakeholders and drive consensus on tough trade‑offs.
• U.S. person status required (ability to obtain and maintain security clearance preferred; existing clearance a significant advantage).

Compensation

Level V – $192k – $223k

Level VI – $223k – $267k

Benefits

• Competitive total compensation package
• Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more
• 401(k) with company match
• 4 weeks of paid time off each year
• 12 annual company holidays

EEO Statement

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and participates in E‑Verify to confirm employment eligibility. As required by law, we will verify the identity and employment authorization of all new employees using the E‑Verify system. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under E‑Verify: https://www.e-verify.gov.