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Software Engineer Airline Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

PLM Support Lead

Mclean, VA ยท On-site +1

$82K - $193K/yr

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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 Sep 4, 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 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.

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 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.

Can software engineers work in aviation?

Software engineers can work in aviation by developing and maintaining systems such as flight control software, airline reservation systems, and air traffic management tools. They often need knowledge of programming languages, safety standards, and industry-specific regulations. These roles may require security clearances and collaboration with aerospace engineers and pilots.

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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $146,258 per year, or $70.3 per hour.

Aviation Security Specialist (Cyber and Counter-UAS)

Air Line Pilots Association

Mclean, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired 1 day ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description


Position Title:Aviation Security Specialist (Cyber and Counter-UAS)
City: Tysons (McLean)
State: VA
Country:US
Type: 4 (Exempt, Bargaining Unit 1 (EB)
# of Openings: 1
Category:Engineering & Air Safety - Pilot Training & Qualification Specialist
Company Name: Air Line Pilots Association, Int'l., Tysons (McLean), Virginia, United States
Description:

Aviation Security Specialist (Cyber and Counter-UAS)

The Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA), the largest airline pilot union in the world and the largest non-governmental aviation safety organization in the world (representing over 80,000 pilots at 42 U.S. and Canadian airlines) seeks an experienced Security Specialist for our Tysons (McLean), Virginia office. With a focus on the policy areas related to cybersecurity and counter-UAS for civil aviation, the including various government and industry working groups that are developing industry standards, policy, and regulatory recommendations for cybersecurity and counter-UAS (C-UAS), as well as aviation jumpseat. Additionally, the Security Specialist will become knowledgeable in other security-related policy areas, including risk-based screening, FFDOs, inflight security, Rap Back, and insider threat(s) to provide back up and overlap with the Aviation Security Specialist.

The Security Specialist effectively represents the Association and the department, interacting with government and industry security officials on a routine basis, advocating on behalf of the Association’s priorities from a policy perspective. In coordination with relevant ALPA committees and staff members, they develop and coordinate written communications to membership, government, and industry groups outlining ALPA positions on a wide variety of security issues, including cybersecurity and C-UAS.

Travel: 5% - 15%; sporadically, could be as much as 25% of the time.

ALPA is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in a safe workplace. We prohibit discrimination, harassment and harmful behavior of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, gender identity, caste, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or other protected characteristics as outlined in federal or provincial laws. We highly value everyone and all are encouraged to apply, including minorities, veterans, and people with disabilities.

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement.

ALPA is a member-driven, staff supported, union with two internal professional unions.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Cybersecurity or related field, including aviation security or Unmanned Aircraft Systems, from an accredited college or university required; or, the equivalent combination of education and practical experience.
  • Three (3) years of experience with aviation cybersecurity and/or counter-UAS technologies.
  • Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of US and Canadian civil aviation operations desired, with a focus on airline operations preferred.
  • Understanding of new entrants’ challenges and issues, air traffic control, the airline industry; airline pilots; and, the laws and regulations that affect the security and the industry strongly preferred.
  • Familiar with Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) rules and policies strongly preferred.
  • Experience engaging with federal advisory committees, aviation rulemaking committees, and/or international aviation organizations (ICAO, IFALPA) preferred.
  • Sound judgment and analytical thinking, with the ability to distill complex technical and regulatory information into clear, actionable recommendations for leadership.
  • Strong technical writing skills are required, and public speaking skills are beneficial.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, oral and written, for effective interaction with all levels of contacts, internal and external.
  • Ability to collaboratively work in multi-disciplined team.
  • Must be a self-starter with professional maturity and sound judgment, capable of independent decision-making and to be proactive in identifying and responding to issues and problems.
  • Must possess exceptional time management skills; be able to work in a fast-paced, multi-tasking environment; and transition easily between projects.
  • Software: Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint; experience with collaborative platforms and virtual meeting technologies.

Physical Demands:

Note: The physical demands described herein are characteristic of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential physical activities of this position described below.

Constantly operates a computer/smartphone/tablet. Regularly required to maintain a stationary position; move about the office and the local metropolitan area; determine what others have said or written; and, converse with others and exchange accurate information.

Regularly required to sit, stand, bend, reach, and move about the office and travel (locally, nationally, and internationally). May also include occasional bending, stooping, squatting, and/or pushing and pulling or moving, e.g., to pack, unpack, and/or move cases.

Occasionally required to move, raise, reach, and/or retrieve binders, books, boxes, and files up to ten (10) pounds (lbs.). While on travel, could be responsible to move, raise, reach, and/or retrieve luggage weighing as much as 50 lbs. (Assistance may not always be available.)

ALPA offers competitive salaries with terrific benefits, including:

  • 401k Plan with Non-Elective Employer Contribution of 12% plus 2% contribution into a Market-Based Cash Balance Plan (MBCBP) after 180 days of employment. No employee contribution required! Employees can choose to make pre-tax, Roth, and after-tax contributions to the 401(k). The plan permits in-plan Roth conversions and has a 4-year vesting schedule. The MBCBP has a 3-year cliff vesting period;
  • Generous health care benefits on day one – Aetna PPO Plan, Aetna High Deductible Health Plan, and a Kaiser HMO Plan (where available), which includes coverage for medical, dental, and vision benefits for the employee, their spouse, and/or dependent children. Employees do not have to pay premiums if they enroll in the Aetna High Deductible Health Plan or the Kaiser HMO Plan;
  • days paid vacation and holidays per year plus 2 volunteer days per year;
  • Generous sick and bereavement leave;
  • Competitive parental leave;
  • Company-paid coverage for long term disability, life insurance, and accidental death & dismemberment;
  • Flexible Spending and Health Savings accounts;
  • Retiree health plan and a retiree health account (retiree HRA). Funds in the retiree health account can be used to pay for eligible medical expenses in retirement;
  • Education Assistance Program that reimburses 100% of eligible expenses;
  • Optional benefits include a legal plan, supplemental life insurance, college 529 plan, pet insurance, long term care insurance, and qualified transportation fringe benefits (where available); and,
  • Partial remote work opportunities are available after six months of service.

PROJECTED ANNUAL SALARY RANGE: $ 97,948.00 – $ 139,923.00

Relocation not provided.

Sponsorship not available for this position.

PM19


Compensation details: 97948-139923 Yearly Salary


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