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Contract Aviation Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Leidos

Aviation Software Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$69K - $125K/yr

Within the Defense Sector, the Kinetic Effects Business Area at Leidos currently has an opening for a talented Aviation Software Test Engineer to work onsite in our Huntsville office. This is an ...

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Leidos

Aviation Software Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$69K - $125K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Within the Defense Sector, the Kinetic Effects Business Area at Leidos currently has an opening for a talented Aviation Software Test Engineer to work onsite in our Huntsville office. This is an ...

Leidos

Aviation Software Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$69K - $125K/yr

Within the Defense Sector, the Kinetic Effects Business Area at Leidos currently has an opening for a talented Aviation Software Test Engineer to work onsite in our Huntsville office. This is an ...

Diaconia

Software Engineer Senior

Dayton, OH · On-site

$85K/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 ...

Skylimit Systems

Software Engineer Manager

Bradenton, FL · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

Lead and mentor a team of embedded software engineers supporting the development of aviation ... software systems. * Manage the full software development lifecycle including requirements, design ...

Garmin

Software Engineer - Aviation Core Java

Chandler, AZ · 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 ...

TEKsystems

Software Engineer

Annapolis, MD

$38 - $48/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Software Engineer, you will be at the forefront of managing and developing applications on a ... Aviation community. Experience Level Intermediate Level Job Type & Location This is a Contract to ...

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All JobsContract Aviation Software Engineer Jobs

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 Aug 15, 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?

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:

What job categories do people searching Contract Aviation Software Engineer jobs look for?

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Contract Aviation Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Aviation Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 65% Full Time, 5% Temporary, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,524 per year, or $70.9 per hour.

Aviation Software & Systems Engineer

Garmin International, Inc.

Olathe, KS • On-site

$167K - $198K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Garmin rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 157 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

Overview
We are seeking a full-time Aviation Software & Systems Engineer at Garmin's U.S. headquarters in the Greater Kansas City area. In this role, you will be responsible for supporting successful conception, development, simulation, testing and maintenance of sophisticated avionics systems including, but not limited to, attitude and heading references systems (AHRS) and air data computers (ADC).
Essential Functions
  • Perform low-level sensor evaluation, algorithm development, and significant embedded software implementation and testing
  • Conceive innovative ways to improve the functionality, safety, and/or efficiency of avionics systems, generally by applying sensor technologies
  • Research emerging sensor technologies and develop new algorithmic approaches which have potential to provide a competitive advantage for avionics systems
  • Design, implement and test embedded software for various avionics systems
  • Participate in support and maintenance of fielded systems numbering in the thousands
  • Participate in product design activities including electrical, software, or mechanical development

Basic Qualifications
  • Master's Degree or PhD in Electrical, Aerospace, Software or Mechanical Engineering OR 4 years relevant experience OR an equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Excellent academics (cumulative GPA greater than or equal to 3.0 as a general rule)
  • Must possess demonstrated training and knowledge in dynamics, estimation, and/or control theory
  • Minimum of 2 years experience performing software programming (preferably C or C++) and using system design and analysis tools (preferably Matlab and/or Simulink)
  • Superior analytical skills with keen attention to detail and quality

Desired Qualifications
  • Outstanding academics (cumulative GPA greater than or equal to 3.5 as a general rule)
  • Experience with Kalman filtering
  • Demonstrated knowledge of Inertial sensors and navigation
  • Experience with RTCA DO-178B software development and certification testing procedures
  • Private Pilot's License

Garmin International is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran's status, age or disability.
This position is eligible for Garmin's benefit program. Details can be found here: Garmin Benefits

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