1

Contract Aviation Software Engineer Jobs in California

Software Engineer

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Contract (12 months with potential for extension) * Clearance: Active Secret Security Clearance ... Aerospace / Defense / Aviation * Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision (Cigna) * Perks: Bonus ...

New

Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$132.02/hr

Software Engineer (LabVIEW) Build the Test Systems Driving the Future of Aerospace Innovation PDS Tech Commercial is partnering with a leading aviation and defense innovator to hire a Software ...

Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$132.02/hr

Software Engineer (LabVIEW)Build the Test Systems Driving the Future of Aerospace Innovation PDS Tech Commercial is partnering with a leading aviation and defense innovator to hire a Software ...

Build Software Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$185K - $230K/yr

Automated aviation systems will enable a future where air transportation is safer, more convenient ... As a Build Software Engineer, you will own the systems that enable quick and reliable building ...

Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Elevate Global Aviation Safety as our next Senior Embedded Software Engineer (GPS)! Ready to make a tangible impact on global industries using cutting‑edge technology? As a Senior Embedded Software ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Contract Aviation Software Engineer information

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 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.

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 most commonly searched types of Aviation Software Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Aviation Software Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Aviation Software Engineer jobs in California?

For Contract Aviation Software Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

The top searched job categories for Contract Aviation Software Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Contract Aviation Software Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Contract Aviation Software Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Aviation Software Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution.

Software Engineer

Palmdale, CA • On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

JOB TITLE: Software Engineer

LOCATION: Palmdale, CA

PAY RATE: $30.00 – 125.00/hour

We are a national aerospace and defense staffing agency seeking highly qualified candidates for a position with a top-tier client.

Job Details:
  • Job Type: Contract (12 months with potential for extension)
  • Clearance: Active Secret Security Clearance required to start.
  • Industry: Aerospace / Defense / Aviation
  • Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision (Cigna)
  • Perks: Bonus potential + Priority access via Tier 1 supplier
  • Openings Nationwide: Thousands of opportunities across the U.S.
  • Shift: 4/10-A
Qualifying Questions:
  • Are you a U.S. citizen and able to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance?
  • Do you meet the educational and experience requirements for this role?
  • Can you commute to the job location or relocate if necessary?
Summary:
  • Contributes to new development software designed to fly both current platforms and future aircraft.
  • Performs requirements generation for embedded software development lifecycle.
  • Designs and implements embedded software for vehicle management systems.
  • Performs integration and flight test activities for embedded software.
  • Develops embedded software for real-time systems using C and C++ programming languages.
  • Works with Linux or RTOS and associated development toolchains.
  • Performs avionics services including ground station development and mission systems software technologies.
  • Integrates software with live assets of varying capability and structure, simulated systems, and laboratory environments including constructive simulations, physical hardware, and system simulations.
  • Works in an Agile software development team using tools such as Git, Bitbucket, Jira, and Confluence.
  • Uses Python for scripting and automation in software development processes.
Requirements:
  • Active Secret Security Clearance required to start.
  • Must be a U.S. Person (as defined by ITAR).
  • Experience with C and C++ programming languages for embedded software development.
  • Experience with Linux or RTOS and associated development toolchains.
  • Experience developing software for embedded real-time systems.
  • Experience with Systems Engineering processes including requirements development, use cases, and data flows.
  • Experience integrating hardware and software for embedded systems.
  • Experience working in an Agile software development team.
  • Experience with Agile software tool chains including Git, Bitbucket, Jira, and Confluence.
  • Experience with Python programming language.
  • Experience with networking protocols including IP, UDP, and RTP.
About Us:

The Structures Company is a premier national aerospace and defense staffing agency specializing in contract, contract-to-hire, and direct hire placements. We deliver expert workforce solutions across engineering, IT, production, maintenance, and support roles. As trusted partners to leading aerospace and defense OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, we connect professionals with career opportunities to grow and excel in aviation, aerospace, and defense.

Eligibility Requirements:
  • Must be a U.S. Person (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual under 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3)) to comply with ITAR regulations.
Keywords:

aerospace, aviation, engineering, maintenance, aircraft design, defense

#J-18808-Ljbffr