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Avionics Software Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Umbra

Flight Software Engineer (Rust)

Arlington, VA · On-site

... avionics, and payloads, as well as the flight software, firmware and digital design solutions to support the entire hardware stack. Our focus is on first principles engineering, and our mandate is ...

Umbra

Flight Software Engineer (Rust)

Arlington, VA · On-site

... avionics, and payloads, as well as the flight software, firmware and digital design solutions to support the entire hardware stack. Our focus is on first principles engineering, and our mandate is ...

Umbra

Flight Software Engineer (Rust)

Reston, VA · On-site

... avionics, and payloads, as well as the flight software, firmware and digital design solutions to support the entire hardware stack. Our focus is on first principles engineering, and our mandate is ...

Umbra

Senior Flight Software Engineer (Rust)

Reston, VA · On-site

$127K - $168K/yr

... avionics, and payloads, as well as the flight software, firmware and digital design solutions to support the entire hardware stack. Our focus is on first principles engineering, and our mandate is ...

New

Umbra

Senior Flight Software Engineer (Rust)

Arlington, VA · On-site

$140K - $185K/yr

... avionics, and payloads, as well as the flight software, firmware and digital design solutions to support the entire hardware stack. Our focus is on first principles engineering, and our mandate is ...

New

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All JobsAvionics Software Engineer JobsAvionics Software Engineer Jobs in Washington

Avionics Software Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$55.5K

$126.1K

$192K

How much do avionics software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for avionics software engineer in Washington is $126,062.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,100.00 and $154,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What typical projects or responsibilities can an Avionics Software Engineer expect in their daily work?

Avionics Software Engineers often design, develop, integrate, and test software for aircraft control systems, navigation, and communication modules. They regularly collaborate with hardware engineers, systems engineers, and quality assurance teams to ensure systems meet rigorous safety and reliability standards. Daily responsibilities may include coding embedded applications, troubleshooting software anomalies, participating in design reviews, and documenting compliance with industry regulations. The role offers a dynamic environment with opportunities to work on cutting-edge technology and contribute to the safety and performance of modern aircraft.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Avionics Software Engineer position, and why are they important?

Avionics Software Engineers need a solid background in computer science, embedded systems, and aerospace engineering, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with programming languages like C/C++, MATLAB, and DO-178C certification or similar safety-critical development standards is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, meticulous attention to detail, and effective collaboration with multidisciplinary teams are standout soft skills. These capabilities ensure the development of reliable, high-quality avionics software crucial for flight safety and system performance.

What does an Avionics Software Engineer do?

An Avionics Software Engineer develops, tests, and maintains software systems used in aircraft and spacecraft. They work on embedded systems for flight control, navigation, communication, and other critical avionics functions. Their role involves ensuring software reliability, compliance with industry regulations, and integration with hardware components. They often use programming languages like C, C++, or Ada and follow safety standards such as DO-178C.

What are popular job titles related to Avionics Software Engineer jobs in Washington? For Avionics Software Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Avionics Software Engineer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Avionics Software Engineer jobs in Washington are:
Avionics Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Avionics Software Engineer job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,062 per year, or $60.6 per hour.
Spacecraft Systems Engineer

Spacecraft Systems Engineer

Quantum Space

Rockville, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Quantum Space is redefining mobility and maneuverability in space. Our high-mobility spacecraft platforms support national security, civil, and commercial missions with unmatched flexibility and propulsion capability. We build fast and iterate quickly.
Who We're Looking For
We are seeking a highly technical and systems-minded Spacecraft Systems Engineer to serve as the technical owner across spacecraft development, from early mission architecture through flight delivery. In this role, you will lead spacecraft-level systems engineering activities, driving requirements development, interface management, design integration, and verification across propulsion, structures, avionics, software, guidance, navigation and control (GNC), and mission operations.
You will play a critical role in ensuring technical excellence throughout the spacecraft lifecycle while partnering closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams, program leadership, customers, and mission stakeholders. This position is ideal for an engineer who combines deep spacecraft systems expertise with strong technical leadership and a passion for building and flying innovative space vehicles.
You'll Make an Impact
  • Own spacecraft-level technical execution across concept development, design, integration, test, and flight readiness
  • Lead end-to-end system architecture, requirements development, interface management, and configuration across all spacecraft subsystems
  • Conduct and lead system-level trade studies involving propulsion, power, mass properties, mission design, payload integration, and overall vehicle performance
  • Serve as the primary technical interface with customers, government stakeholders, mission partners, and internal program leadership
  • Lead major engineering reviews including System Requirements Review (SRR), Preliminary Design Review (PDR), Critical Design Review (CDR), Test Readiness Review (TRR), and Flight Readiness Review (FRR)
  • Develop and execute spacecraft verification and validation strategies for both flight hardware and software
  • Support spacecraft assembly, integration, environmental testing, launch campaign activities, and mission readiness
  • Collaborate across propulsion, avionics, structures, software, GNC, manufacturing, and mission operations teams to ensure successful system integration
  • Mentor engineers while promoting technical rigor, rapid execution, and engineering best practices
  • Support multiple spacecraft development efforts in a dynamic, fast-paced engineering environment
  • Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives that strengthen systems engineering processes, design methodologies, and technical standards

What It Takes
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field (Master's degree preferred)
  • 3-12 years of spacecraft systems engineering experience supporting flight or flight-like hardware
  • Demonstrated experience owning spacecraft-level requirements, architecture development, subsystem integration, and technical execution
  • Experience leading technical development through at least one major spacecraft design milestone (PDR or later)
  • Strong understanding of spacecraft subsystems including propulsion, structures, avionics, GNC, power, thermal, and software interfaces
  • Experience developing system requirements, interface control documentation, verification plans, and technical baselines
  • Ability to serve as a technical authority within a fast-paced spacecraft development environment
  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, communication, and cross-functional leadership skills
  • Ability to communicate effectively with engineers, executive leadership, customers, and government stakeholders

Nice-to-Have Experience
  • Experience serving as a Lead Systems Engineer or technical lead on a spacecraft development program
  • Experience supporting U.S. Space Force, Space Systems Command (SSC), NASA, NRO, SDA, AFRL, or other national security space programs
  • Deep technical background in spacecraft propulsion systems and high-delta-V mission design
  • Hands-on experience supporting spacecraft integration, environmental testing, launch campaigns, and flight operations
  • Familiarity with mission assurance, technical risk management, and systems engineering best practices
  • Experience using requirements and configuration management tools such as Jama, DOORS, JIRA, and Confluence
  • Working knowledge of CAD tools such as Creo or SolidWorks and multidisciplinary engineering principles across structural, thermal, and fluid systems
  • Programming or mission analysis experience using Python, MATLAB, or similar engineering tools
  • Active U.S. security clearance or ability to obtain one

What You'll Get
  • Ownership - Lead the technical development of advanced spacecraft from mission concept through launch and flight operations
  • Innovation - Help develop next-generation spacecraft that redefine mobility and maneuverability in space
  • Impact - Work on mission-critical programs supporting national security, civil, and commercial space customers
  • Growth - Join a collaborative engineering team focused on rapid execution, technical excellence, and continuous innovation
  • Compensation - Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity sharing

Location: Rockville, MD or Hawthorne, CA or Denver, CO
Base Salary: $110,000 to $220,000
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full-time offers and are considered part of Quantum Space's total compensation package.
Additional Requirements
To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Apply now. Join us in building the next generation of spacecraft.

Apply