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Contract Aviation Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary : CAE is a leader in defense and security, as well as civil aviation, providing ... Government contract requirements, only U.S. citizens are eligible for this role. Preferred : • ...

Experience or interest in aviation, aerospace, flight systems, navigation, or advanced air mobility ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Phoenix, AZ. Pay and Benefits The pay ...

Genesis10 is currently seeking a Software Engineer for a contract position with a Global Financial Institution located in Charlotte, NC. This is a 24+ month contract opportunity. In this role, you ...

Civil Project Engineer

Charleston, WV

$82K - $110K/yr

Our executive search firm is representing a full-service architecture, civil engineering ... Energy or Aviation. * Software experience with Micro Office, AutoCAD and Civil 3D is a plus.

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Contract Aviation Software Engineer information

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$63.5K

$147.5K

$205.5K

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

As of Jun 9, 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:
Software Engineer 2 - Aviation Databases

Software Engineer 2 - Aviation Databases

Garmin

Olathe, KS

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Garmin rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 139 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Overview
We are seeking a full-time Software Engineer 2 onsite at Garmin's U.S. headquarters in the Greater Kansas City area. In this role, you will be responsible for developing, maintaining, and using moderately complex aviation data processing software which supports charting solutions designed for Garmin products and/or applications.
Essential Functions
  • Creates and executes designs for small sets of new functionalities as part of a software project using Python, C and C++ or other selected languages
  • Utilizes software engineering tools such as configuration management systems, build processes, and debuggers in the software development process
  • May perform as a technical leader or Lead Software Engineer for derivative software project
  • Collaborates and adds value through participation in peer code reviews, providing comments and suggestions
  • Provides reliable solutions to a variety of problems using sound problem solving techniques
  • Performs technical root cause analysis and outlines corrective action for given problems
  • Contributes to technical research on new technologies
  • Estimates level of effort, evaluates new options of similar technology, offers suggestions to improve processes, and provides feedback on some electrical design aspects
  • Serves as a mentor to less experienced software engineers (Software Engineer 1)
Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Math, Physics or related field AND a minimum of 1 year 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)
  • Demonstrated proficiency and experience necessary to develop moderately complex software in Python, C and C++ or other selected languages
  • Proficient knowledge, utilization and mastery of relevant software engineering tools (configuration management systems, build processes, debuggers, emulators, simulators and logic analyzers)
Desired Qualifications
  • Outstanding academics (cumulative GPA greater than or equal to 3.5)
  • Experience with relational databases
  • Strong technical writing skills, such as reading regulatory documents and writing engineering specifications
  • Background with unit or system software testing
  • Ability to follow detailed SOPs, process complex information, and bring creative solutions within regulatory framework while adhering to firm industry deadlines

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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