Principal Avionics Software Engineer

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and bonus

Health, vision, dental insurance

Retirement plan

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Avionics Software Engineer to lead the design and development of real-time embedded avionics software for next-generation flight control systems. This fully remote role integrates with a global engineering team, emphasizes DO-178C compliance, C/C++ development, and mentoring with strong communication.

Ideal candidates have 10+ years' experience and advanced degrees; we offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for advanced

Qualifications

• Master’s degree or PhD in CS/EE or related field.
• 10+ years of avionics software development with embedded real-time systems.
• Experience with DO-178C certification processes and standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead architectural design of complex avionics software systems.
• Develop real-time embedded software in C/C++.
• Define requirements, specifications, and DO-178C-compliant test plans.
• Oversee integration, testing, and verification processes.
• Mentor junior engineers and foster technical excellence.
• Perform code reviews and static analysis.
• Collaborate with hardware, systems, and certification teams.
• Troubleshoot complex software defects.
• Shape development processes and tooling for avionics.

Skills

Embedded systems

Real-time software development

Leadership

Remote collaboration

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field

Tools

IDEs

Debuggers

Emulators

Version control systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a groundbreaking innovator in aviation technology, is seeking a distinguished Principal Avionics Software Engineer to join their fully remote, elite engineering team. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead the design and development of sophisticated software solutions for next-generation avionics systems. You will be at the forefront of technological advancement, contributing to projects that redefine flight control, navigation, and communication systems. We are searching for a visionary engineer with extensive experience in embedded systems, real-time software development, and a deep understanding of aviation software standards. This role is ideal for a self-motivated professional who thrives in a collaborative, remote-first setting and is passionate about creating robust, high-integrity software. The work will be conducted remotely, with the team collaborating across various locations, centered around **Upington, Northern Cape, ZA**.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design and development of complex avionics software systems.
• Develop high-quality, reliable, and efficient real-time embedded software in C/C++.
• Define software requirements, specifications, and test plans in compliance with aerospace standards (e.g., DO-178C).
• Oversee the software integration, testing, and verification processes.
• Mentor and guide junior software engineers, fostering technical excellence.
• Perform code reviews, static analysis, and other quality assurance activities.
• Collaborate closely with hardware engineers, systems engineers, and certification authorities.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex software defects and issues.
• Contribute to the definition and refinement of avionics software development processes and tools.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in avionics software development, with a strong focus on embedded systems.
• Expertise in C/C++ programming for real-time embedded environments.
• In-depth knowledge of DO-178C certification standards and processes.
• Experience with flight control systems, navigation systems, or communication systems.
• Proficiency in using development tools such as IDEs, debuggers, emulators, and version control systems.
• Strong understanding of software architecture design patterns and principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and debugging skills.
• Proven ability to lead technical projects and mentor team members in a remote setting.
• Outstanding communication and documentation skills.

Benefits

• As a Principal Engineer in our client's remote team, you will receive a highly competitive salary and bonus structure, reflecting your expertise and contributions.
• Our client provides a comprehensive benefits package, including excellent health, vision, and dental insurance, a generous retirement savings plan, and ample paid time off.
• You will have access to cutting-edge technology and resources, with significant opportunities for professional growth, attending conferences, and pursuing advanced certifications.
• This fully remote role offers unparalleled flexibility and autonomy, allowing you to shape your work environment while making a significant impact on the future of aviation technology.