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Contract Aviation Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Software Engineer Senior

Dayton, OH ยท On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Familiarity with aviation software standards (DO-178 ) and/or airworthiness certification criteria (specifically MIL-HDBK-516C , Section 15 - Computer Systems and Software) MIL-HDBK-516C (Section 15 ...

Software Engineer Senior

Dayton, OH ยท On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Familiarity with aviation software standards (DO-178 ) and/or airworthiness certification criteria (specifically MIL-HDBK-516C , Section 15 - Computer Systems and Software) MIL-HDBK-516C (Section 15 ...

Software Engineer - Aviation Core Java

Chandler, AZ ยท On-site

$50.75 - $69.75/hr

Job Summary : Garmin is a leading technology company specializing in aviation products, and they are seeking a Software Engineer - Aviation Core Java to develop software and create new ...

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Contract Aviation Software Engineer information

See salary details

$63.5K

$147.5K

$205.5K

How much do contract aviation software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract aviation software engineer in the United States is $147,524.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,000.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Contract Aviation Software Engineer?

A Contract Aviation Software Engineer is a software developer who works on a temporary or project-based basis to design, develop, and maintain software systems used in the aviation industry. These professionals may be responsible for creating flight control software, avionics systems, simulation tools, or air traffic management solutions. They often work for airlines, aircraft manufacturers, or aerospace companies, and their contracts may vary in length depending on the project's scope. Typically, contract engineers bring specialized skills and flexibility to teams needing to meet specific project deadlines or technical requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Aviation Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Aviation Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills (such as C, C++, or Ada), a solid understanding of avionics systems, and typically a degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with industry standards like DO-178C, real-time operating systems, and software development tools such as Git, Jira, and MATLAB is highly valuable. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for working with multidisciplinary teams and meeting tight deadlines. These skills ensure the delivery of safe, reliable, and compliant software solutions in the highly regulated aviation industry.

What is the difference between Contract Aviation Software Engineer vs Contract Aerospace Software Engineer?

AspectContract Aviation Software EngineerContract Aerospace Software Engineer
Required CredentialsRelevant software development certifications, aerospace industry knowledgeSimilar certifications, specialized aerospace industry experience
Work EnvironmentAircraft manufacturers, airlines, aerospace firmsAerospace research centers, defense contractors
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in aviation and commercial aircraft sectorsPrimarily in space, defense, and satellite sectors

Contract Aviation Software Engineers and Contract Aerospace Software Engineers share similar skills and certifications but differ mainly in industry focus. Aviation engineers work on commercial and private aircraft, while aerospace engineers focus on space and defense projects. Both roles require specialized software expertise and industry knowledge, but their work environments and applications vary significantly.

What are the typical challenges faced by contract aviation software engineers when integrating software with existing avionics systems?

Contract aviation software engineers often encounter the challenge of ensuring compatibility between new software and legacy avionics systems, which can involve working with outdated documentation and strict regulatory requirements. Accurate testing and validation are essential, as aviation software must meet rigorous safety and reliability standards. Close collaboration with hardware engineers and compliance specialists is common, and the ability to quickly adapt to varying project scopes and client expectations is crucial for success in contract roles.
More about Contract Aviation Software Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Aviation Software Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Contract Aviation Software Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Aviation Software Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Aviation Software Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Aviation Software Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Aviation Software Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Contract Aviation Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,524 per year, or $70.9 per hour.
Software Engineer with Security Clearance

Software Engineer with Security Clearance

Zachary Piper Solutions, LLC

Oklahoma City, OK โ€ข On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Software Engineer to support a company focused on the development, integration, and sustainment of mission-critical defense aviation software systems. This position is fully on-site at Tinker Air Force Base, OK. The Software Engineer will design, develop, test, and maintain software models and operational flight software supporting aircraft system monitoring, testing, and mission readiness. This is an opportunity to directly contribute to the reliability and performance of critical military aircraft platforms supporting national defense missions. Responsibilities for the Software Engineer include: * Design, develop, test, and maintain software system and subsystem engineering models.
* Support full software lifecycle activities, including requirements management, tracking, and workflow execution using JIRA.
* Analyze and translate customer requirements and technical specifications into software solutions.
* Develop, enhance, and sustain operational flight software used for aircraft system monitoring and testing.
* Troubleshoot, debug, and resolve software issues while supporting system integration efforts and compliance with safety and engineering standards. Required Qualifications for the Software Engineer include: * 5-7 years of professional software engineering experience.
* Proficiency in C programming and/or Ada.
* Experience with JIRA and software development lifecycle processes.
* Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field (or equivalent experience).
* Active Secret Clearance required prior to start. Compensation for the Software Engineer include: * Salary Range: $120,000 - $170,000 depending on experience
* Full Benefits Package: PTO, Paid Holidays, Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, Sick leave as required by law
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