1

Ground Software Engineer Jobs in Madison, AL (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Principal Software Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$123K - $170K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Onsite - Huntsville TCS is searching for a Sr. Principal Software Engineer to join our strong team of Engineers supporting our Ground-based Midcourse Defense (GMD) customer in Huntsville, AL. The GMD ...

Sr. Principal Software Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$123K - $170K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Onsite - Huntsville TCS is searching for a Sr. Principal Software Engineer to join our strong team of Engineers supporting our Ground-based Midcourse Defense (GMD) customer in Huntsville, AL. The GMD ...

Overview i3 is seeking a Software Engineer with 0-3 years of professional experience to help ... Familiarity with drones and/or RC Planes, boats, or ground vehicles. Physical Demands * The ...

Showing results 41-60

Ground Software Engineer information

See Madison, AL salary details

$56.9K

$132.2K

$184.1K

How much do ground software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for ground software engineer in Madison, AL is $132,177.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ground software engineer?

Ground Software Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain software systems that support space missions from the ground. Their work typically involves building tools for mission control, telemetry processing, satellite communication, and data management. These engineers ensure that spacecraft can be monitored, commanded, and controlled from Earth, often collaborating closely with hardware engineers and mission operators. They play a crucial role in mission success by enabling real-time data analysis, automation, and troubleshooting for space operations.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a ground software engineer?

To thrive as a Ground Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills (often in languages like C++, Java, or Python), a background in computer science or engineering, and knowledge of satellite ground systems. Familiarity with software development tools, real-time operating systems, and experience with mission control systems or telemetry processing platforms are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure reliable software that supports mission-critical ground operations and fosters collaboration within multidisciplinary teams.

What challenges does a ground software engineer face when integrating new systems with existing ground infrastructure?

Ground Software Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new software with legacy ground systems, such as ensuring compatibility between different hardware interfaces and communication protocols. They may also need to address issues related to real-time data processing, security requirements, and system scalability. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—including hardware engineers, network specialists, and mission operations personnel—is essential to identify potential integration issues early and develop effective solutions.

What is the difference between Ground Software Engineer vs Satellite Software Engineer?

AspectGround Software EngineerSatellite Software Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related fields; experience with embedded systems and real-time softwareSimilar credentials; focus on embedded systems, real-time software, and aerospace standards
Work EnvironmentGround stations, control centers, labs, often in aerospace or defense industriesSatellite onboard systems, spacecraft, aerospace facilities
Employer & IndustryAerospace, defense, satellite communication companiesSatellite manufacturers, space agencies, aerospace firms
Search & Comparison IntentPeople comparing roles in satellite ground control and software developmentRoles related to satellite onboard software development

While both roles involve embedded and real-time software skills, Ground Software Engineers focus on developing and maintaining ground station systems and control software, whereas Satellite Software Engineers work on onboard satellite systems and firmware. The roles often overlap in skills but differ in environment and specific responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Ground Software Engineer jobs in Madison, AL?

For Ground Software Engineer jobs in Madison, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Sr. Principal Software Engineer

Technical Consulting Solutions, Inc.

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$123K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Clearances Required: Active Top-Secret Clearance to start
Citizenship: Must be a current US citizen
Location: Onsite - Huntsville
Job Description
TCS is searching for a Sr. Principal Software Engineer to join our strong team of Engineers supporting our Ground-based Midcourse Defense (GMD) customer in Huntsville, AL. The GMD program is a portion of the Missile Defense Agency's (MDA) system to protect the US and our allies from ballistic missile attacks. The selected candidate will use modern tools to further the development and sustainment of the GMD system."
Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) discipline from an accredited university and 8 years of related experience, or a Master's STEM Degree and 6 years of related experience, or 4 year of experience with a PhD.
  • Experience developing real time embedded software in C++
  • Experience with HW/SW integration
  • Experience developing software in a RHEL environment
  • Familiarity with Atlassian and Agile software development practices.
  • Ability and willingness to travel 10% to support business needs.
  • Applicants must have a current active in-scope U.S. Government DoD issued Secret security clearance at the time of application which is required to start.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Software Engineering or related field.
  • Missile Defense domain knowledge
  • Experience using LabView
  • Security + Certification
  • A current active in-scope U.S. Government DoD Top Secret security clearance.

Benefits:
  • Highlights of our benefits include Health/Dental/Vision, 401(k) match, profit sharing, Flexible Time Off, STD/LTD/Life Insurance, Referral Bonuses, professional development reimbursement, vacation, sick leave, and maternity/paternity leave.

Apply online or visit us at www.tcs-inc.com/careers
TCS, Inc. is an EEO Employer.