1

Avionics Software Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Software Developer VI

Herndon, VA · On-site

$128K - $229K/yr

Significant focus on developing embedded software code for spacecraft bus avionics, spacecraft payloads, and ground support equipment. Includes development of special utilities for support ...

Significant focus on developing embedded software code for spacecraft bus avionics, spacecraft payloads, and ground support equipment. Includes development of special utilities for support ...

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Avionics Software information

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

To thrive as an Avionics Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills (such as C/C++), a solid understanding of avionics systems, and typically a degree in computer science, electrical engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), industry standards like DO-178C, and version control systems is commonly required, along with certifications in safety-critical software development. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial to ensure the reliability, safety, and regulatory compliance of software that controls critical aircraft systems.

What is an avionics software engineer?

Avionics software engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain the software systems used in aircraft and spacecraft. Their work ensures that navigation, communication, flight control, and other critical systems operate reliably and safely. They collaborate with hardware engineers and comply with strict industry regulations to guarantee the performance and safety of avionics systems. Avionics software engineers often use specialized programming languages and tools tailored to the aerospace industry.

What are some common challenges faced in an avionics software role, and how can they be addressed?

Avionics Software professionals often encounter challenges such as strict regulatory compliance, real-time system constraints, and ensuring the safety and reliability of their code. Working within rigorous development and testing processes, including DO-178C guidelines, can be demanding but is essential for aircraft certification. Collaborating closely with hardware engineers and systems teams helps to address integration issues early. Staying organized, maintaining clear documentation, and participating in code reviews are all crucial strategies for overcoming these challenges and ensuring project success.

What is the difference between Avionics Software vs Avionics Hardware Technician?

AspectAvionics SoftwareAvionics Hardware Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in software engineering, computer science, or related field; certifications like FAA Part 147 may be beneficialRequires technical diploma or associate degree; certifications such as FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) are common
Work EnvironmentDesigning, developing, testing software systems in labs or office settingsMaintaining, repairing, installing hardware components in aircraft or maintenance facilities
Industry UsageFocuses on software development for avionics systems used in aircraftHandles physical hardware components used in avionics systems

In summary, Avionics Software professionals develop and test the software that controls aircraft systems, while Avionics Hardware Technicians focus on maintaining and repairing the physical hardware components. Both roles are essential in the avionics industry and often collaborate to ensure aircraft safety and functionality.

Infographic showing various Avionics Software job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Embedded Software Engineer - Level 3 or 4

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Dulles, VA

$130K - $171K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 363 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 540 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

If forging a secure future excites you, look no further! Northrop Grumman's Space Sector provides an arena where your passion for innovation and quest for exploration are welcome. As an Embedded Software Engineer - Level 3 or 4, your role at Dulles, VA, will be pivotal in supporting mission-critical efforts to national and global security.

Ready to join forces with our visionary team?

This Embedded Software Engineer will join our team of qualified, diverse individuals in the Space Systems organization, developing space flight software platforms for National Space Security programs. The individual we seek will be self-motivated, proactive, and goal-oriented.

This position will work a 9/80 schedule, with every other Friday off. This position is 100% onsite and cannot accommodate telecommute work.

Job responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Develop embedded software modules and have familiarity with data protocols including UART, Synchronous Serial, MIL-STD-1553, SPACEWIRE, SPI, discrete digital and analog IO, and others

  • Work with other disciplines to establish Flight-Software requirements, testing, and verification plan.

  • Develop and configure board support packages (BSPs) and integrate device drivers.

  • Performs trade studies via computer simulation or kits & development boards.

  • Work with multiple engineers to integrate spacecraft components and flight software with the simulation platform.

  • Be involved in the hardware definition and software design, development, debug and integration on simulation and hardware-in-the-loop platforms.

  • Analyze system resources to enhance efficiency, stability, and processing speed.

  • Prepare design documentation, analysis, test results and presentation materials for internal and external customers.

  • Work with software developers and other engineers, as needed, to help diagnose and identify the root cause of problems found during software installation, integration, acceptance test, and operational events.

  • Work in an innovative environment across diverse assignments and in collaborative team settings across all levels.

  • Other duties as assigned.

This position is contingent upon the candidate obtaining final clearances and program access(es) within a reasonable period of time as determined by the company.

This position can be filled at either a Level 3 or a Level 4.

Basic Qualifications for Level 3:

  • Bachelor's degree in STEM (Aerospace/Electrical/Computer/Software Engineering) with 5 years of relevant professional experience - OR - Master's degree with 3 years of relevant professional experience - OR - PhD with 1 year of relevant professional experience.

  • Requires an active U.S. Government Secret security clearance, current and within scope, at time of application [US citizenship required]

  • Advanced programming proficiency with C/C++, Python.

  • Understanding of common embedded system tools, real-time operating systems, and avionics integration and test practices

  • Core affinity and parallel processing experience

  • Experience with understanding the difference between concurrent and parallel processing

  • Familiarity with Stellar or CFS

  • Demonstrable programming experience on Linux

Basic Qualifications for Level 4:

  • Bachelor's degree in STEM (Aerospace/Electrical/Computer/Software Engineering) with 8 years of relevant professional experience - OR - Master's degree with 6 years of relevant professional experience - OR - PhD with 4 years of relevant professional experience.

  • Requires an active U.S. Government Secret security clearance, current and within scope, at time of application [US citizenship required]

  • Advanced programming proficiency with C/C++, Python.

  • Understanding of common embedded system tools, real-time operating systems, and avionics integration and test practices

  • Core affinity and parallel processing experience

  • Experience with understanding the difference between concurrent and parallel processing

  • Familiarity with Stellar or CFS

  • Demonstrable programming experience on Linux

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Top-Secret / SCI

  • Experience with Yocto or Vulcan

  • System knowledge in one or more of the following domains: Spacecraft Command & Control, Mission Planning, Space Situational Awareness, and Visualization

  • Experience with Digital, Analog, RS-422 synchronous serial and UART, MIL-STD-1553, SpaceWire electrical interfaces

Curious about all the exciting developments with the Northrop Grumman Space Sector? Click the link below:

https://www.northropgrumman.com/space

Working at Northrop Grumman is more than just a paycheck. We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards and benefits package designed to help you thrive at work and in life. For more information on our Total Rewards package, please visit our Total Rewards site.

Northrop Grumman Total Rewards

Primary Level Salary Range: $114,000.00 - $171,000.00Secondary Level Salary Range: $142,200.00 - $213,400.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

What Northrop Grumman employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Northrop Grumman logo

About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939