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Aerospace Software Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Cymertek

Space Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$180K - $213K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

SIMILAR CAREER TITLES Satellite Software Engineer, Aerospace Software Engineer, Spacecraft Software Engineer, Space Systems Engineer, Embedded Systems Engineer, Space Systems Developer, Space ...

Cymertek

Space Systems Software Engineer

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

$176K - $209K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

SIMILAR CAREER TITLES Satellite Software Engineer, Aerospace Software Engineer, Spacecraft Software Engineer, Space Systems Engineer, Embedded Systems Engineer, Space Systems Developer, Space ...

Cymertek

Space Systems Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$178K - $211K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

SIMILAR CAREER TITLES Satellite Software Engineer, Aerospace Software Engineer, Spacecraft Software Engineer, Space Systems Engineer, Embedded Systems Engineer, Space Systems Developer, Space ...

Cymertek

Space Systems Software Engineer

Tysons, VA · On-site

$173K - $205K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

SIMILAR CAREER TITLES Satellite Software Engineer, Aerospace Software Engineer, Spacecraft Software Engineer, Space Systems Engineer, Embedded Systems Engineer, Space Systems Developer, Space ...

The Aerospace Corporation

Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the ... This role offers experienced software developers the opportunity toleveragetheir technical acumen ...

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All JobsAerospace Software Engineer JobsAerospace Software Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Aerospace Software Engineer information

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$72.5K

$168.3K

$234.5K

How much do aerospace software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace software engineer in Washington, DC is $168,345.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,900.00 and $197,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aerospace software engineer?

To excel as an Aerospace Software Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science or engineering, proficiency in programming languages like C/C++, and experience with real-time embedded systems. Familiarity with aerospace standards such as DO-178C, knowledge of avionics platforms, and certifications like FAA DER or equivalent are often required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you effectively collaborate on multidisciplinary projects and adapt to fast-paced environments. These skills ensure the development of safe, reliable, and high-quality software systems that meet rigorous aerospace industry standards.

What does an aerospace software engineer do?

An Aerospace Software Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains software used in aerospace systems, including avionics, flight control, navigation, and simulation. They work with programming languages like C, C++, and Python to ensure software meets safety and performance standards. These engineers collaborate with hardware engineers, systems engineers, and regulatory bodies to comply with industry standards such as DO-178C. Their work is critical for ensuring the reliability and safety of aircraft, spacecraft, and defense systems.

What are some typical projects or responsibilities for an aerospace software engineer?

Aerospace Software Engineers often work on developing, testing, and maintaining software for flight control systems, simulation platforms, and avionics hardware. They may be responsible for writing and verifying safety-critical code, integrating new features with existing aircraft systems, and resolving software anomalies discovered during testing or in operation. Day-to-day work can involve close collaboration with systems engineers, hardware engineers, and quality assurance teams to ensure compliance with industry and regulatory requirements. This variety of responsibilities offers continuous learning opportunities and a clear path toward leadership or specialization in the field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Aerospace Software Engineer jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Aerospace Software Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Aerospace Software Engineer jobs in Washington, DC?

For Aerospace Software Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Aerospace Software Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Aerospace Software Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

Aerospace Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerospace Software Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $168,345 per year, or $80.9 per hour.

Aerospace Software Engineer/Developer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 73 rated research

Job description

Description
Are you interested in taking missile system models and translating their design characteristics into algorithms and methodologies that can be used in flight-ready software?
Do you like working with a team to take innovative ideas from proof of concept to program ready final products?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.
We are seeking a software engineer/developer to help us develop and translate algorithms, concepts and approaches for the mission planning, fire control and guidance of missile systems to flight-ready software.
As an Aerospace Software Engineer/Developer you will...
  • Develop software for mission planning, weapon control, and guidance systems using advanced methodologies
  • Design methods for evaluating and testing developed software
  • Algorithmically model the challenging dynamics of hypersonic vehicles in varying environments
  • Interact with sponsors and external representative to formulate concepts of operation for these novel and advanced technologies
  • Document and present work to sponsors and third-party collaborators

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a B.S. in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering; Computer Science; applied mathematics; or related technical field and 2+ years of relevant experience
  • Have significant experience in programming languages such as C++, MATLAB, or Python
  • Are familiar with software repositories, bug tracking systems, and collaboration tools.
  • Have knowledge of flight dynamics, navigation, guidance, and control
  • Are able to obtain a Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Hold a M.S. or PhD. in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering; Computer Science; applied mathematics; or related technical field with relevant experience in modeling and simulation of flight systems
  • Have experience developing 3-DoF and/or 6-DoF flight simulations
  • Have some knowledge of optimization techniques/optimal control
  • Have worked with solvers such as SNOPT, IPOPT, ECOS, etc.
  • Are willing and able to travel 10 to 20 days a year
  • Hold an active Top Secret security clearance or higher

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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