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Software Engineer Airline Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Scala Engineer

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$116K - $139K/yr

Design build and own end-to-end software solutions across the full development lifecycle from ... the engineering team using AI coding workflows Mentor engineers and set best practices for AI ...

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Software Engineer Airline information

See Virginia salary details

$63K

$146.3K

$203.7K

How much do software engineer airline jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer airline in Virginia is $146,258.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,000.00 and $171,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Software Engineer Airline vs Software Developer Airline?

AspectSoftware Engineer AirlineSoftware Developer Airline
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field; sometimes certifications in software engineeringBachelor's in Computer Science or related field; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with cross-functional teams, involved in system design and architectureFocuses on coding, testing, and implementing software solutions
Industry UsageUsed by airlines for complex system development and integrationCommonly used for application development within airline IT teams
Search & Comparison IntentInterested in roles involving system design and engineering in airlinesLooking for roles focused on software coding and application creation in airlines

While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, Software Engineer Airline typically involves system design, architecture, and integration tasks, whereas Software Developer Airline focuses more on coding and implementing software solutions. Both roles are essential in airline IT operations but differ in scope and responsibilities.

How does a software engineer in the airline industry typically collaborate with cross-functional teams?

Software Engineers in the airline industry often work closely with cross-functional teams, including product managers, UX designers, QA testers, and operations staff. Collaboration is essential for ensuring that software solutions meet regulatory requirements, are user-friendly for both airline staff and passengers, and integrate smoothly with legacy systems. Regular agile sprints, stand-up meetings, and code reviews are common practices, and engineers may also participate in troubleshooting sessions when live issues arise. Effective communication and adaptability are key, as projects often require input from various departments to address the unique challenges of airline operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software engineer in the airline industry, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Engineer in the airline industry, you need strong programming skills (such as Java, Python, or C++), a degree in computer science or a related field, and experience with systems integration. Familiarity with airline-specific systems like reservation platforms (e.g., Sabre, Amadeus), APIs, and cloud services, as well as relevant certifications, is often required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for collaborating with cross-functional teams and addressing complex technical issues. These skills ensure the development and maintenance of reliable, secure, and efficient systems critical to airline operations and customer experience.

What does a software engineer do in the airline industry?

A Software Engineer in the airline industry designs, develops, tests, and maintains software systems that support various airline operations. This can include building systems for flight booking, ticketing, baggage tracking, crew scheduling, and flight management. Their work ensures smooth customer experiences, operational efficiency, and compliance with safety and regulatory standards. They often collaborate with other IT professionals, engineers, and business stakeholders to deliver robust and scalable solutions.
What are popular job titles related to Software Engineer Airline jobs in Virginia? For Software Engineer Airline jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Software Engineer Airline jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Software Engineer Airline jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Software Engineer Airline jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Software Engineer Airline job openings:
Infographic showing various Software Engineer Airline job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $146,258 per year, or $70.3 per hour.

Software Engineer III

Airlines Reporting Corporation

Arlington, VA โ€ข Hybrid

$93K/mo

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

It's a great time to join us at Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC)! ARC accelerates the growth of global air travel by delivering forward-looking travel data, flexible distribution services and other innovative industry solutions. We are a leading travel intelligence company with the worldโ€™s largest, most comprehensive global airline ticket dataset, including more than 15 billion passenger flights. By working here, you can contribute to solutions and expertise that strengthen economies and enrich lives. We think big, embrace challenges and explore new ideas to lead the way for the travel industry.

ARC is looking for a Software Engineer III to join the Traverse application development team! In this role, you will provide product teams software development and product delivery support for the full product stack. Additionally, you'll take guidance from and collaborate with Product Owners, Solution Owners, and senior technical team members.


  1. Support software development by implementing software solutions utilizing design patterns and industry best practices for optimal product delivery and enhancements.
  2. Partner with product owners and business SMEs to analyze the business need and provide a supportable and sustainable engineered solution.  Ensure that the overall technical solution is aligned with the business needs.
  3. Drive the creation and modifications of the product portfolio components, identify and engage all technical resources necessary to contribute to the solution.  Ensure the solution is consistent with ARC architecture, design and development standards.
  4. Develop applications using industry best practices.  Adopt new methodologies that provide the business with increased flexibility and agility.
  5. Stay current with latest development tools, technology ideas, patterns and methodologies; share knowledge by clearly articulating results and ideas to key stakeholders.

  • Bachelorโ€™s Degree in Computer Science or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
  • 3 or more years of application programming in both front-end, user interfaces, server-side application, and database queries, with experience across the full software development lifecycle (SDLC).
  • 3 or more years of experience with full-cycle application development (Full SDLC experience: design, development, delivery, etc.). 
  • 1 year with Agile, Scrum and Continuous Integration and Continuous Delivery.
  • 2 years of experience in software development using modern technologies , including AWS services (e.g., Lambda, API Gateway, DynamoDB), microservices and containerized architectures, and open-source technologies such as Node.js, Python, Java, and React.
  • Working knowledge of integrating AI and LLM APIs into production applications, with good knowledge of RAG, vector databases, LLMs, and prompt engineering.
  • Experience with AI coding tools such as GitLab Duo, GitHub Copilot, Cursor IDE, and similar tools to accelerate and improve software development workflows.
  • Ability to discover and define functional requirements and to transform them into technical requirements and solution definition.
  • Good communication skills (verbal and written) and ability to communicate with internal and external customers and all levels of management, including communicating technical information to non-technical audiences.
  • Intellectual curiosity to continually challenge what exists and explores what should be changed to best meet evolving business and market.
  • A strong passion for supporting peers to help meet timelines on larger projects.

ARC123


  • Joining ARC means joining a team that is motivated, diverse, creative, collaborative and solutions-oriented. We think big, embrace challenges, and explore new ideas to lead the way for the travel industry.
  • Our employees value the hands-on learning and professional development opportunities that allow them to expand their skills and grow their career in new, dynamic ways.
  • ARC offers WorkFlex. WorkFlex is ARCโ€™s hybrid work program which offers eligible employees the flexibility to work from home while also requiring in office workdays throughout the year to foster collaboration and connection throughout the organization. Weโ€™ve designed WorkFlex to enable employees to succeed and thrive while maintaining strong connections to one another and ARC - both of which are critical to our shared success.
  • We offer a highly competitive, comprehensive benefits package so you can worry less and focus on what truly matters. Please click here to review our benefits on our company website. 
  • By joining ARC, you will partner with top minds in the industry as we use data and technology to innovate how the world travels.

EOE M/F/D/V Females and Minorities Encouraged to Apply