Junior Software Engineer - Modeling and Simulation
The Junior Software Engineer will develop and maintain high-fidelity physics-based simulation models for US Army radar systems, working closely with senior engineers. This entry-level role involves writing modern C++ code, learning GPU acceleration, and supporting integration and testing within real-time hardware-in-the-loop environments. The position offers growth opportunities in defense software engineering, high-performance computing, and radar signal processing, based in Huntsville, AL with on-site work requirements.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Aerospace & Defense (Modeling & Simulation).
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
Confidential Client is seeking an entry-level Junior Software Engineer to join a Modeling & Simulation team in Triana, AL. In this role you will develop, test, and maintain high-fidelity, physics-based simulation models used for radar and related defense systems. You will work under the mentorship of senior engineers and domain experts to produce modular, high-performance C++ code that runs on Linux-based systems and on accelerated compute platforms.
- Design, implement, and maintain modular C++ (C++11+) code for radar subsystem models (transmitters, receivers, signal processing, environmental effects).
- Refactor and optimize code for readability, maintainability, and native Linux execution.
- Support integration of digital models into real-time Hardware-in-the-Loop (HWIL) testbeds and faster-than-real-time cluster execution environments.
- Run pre-test simulations to validate test plans, target geometry, and tactical software builds.
- Process, visualize, and analyze simulation output to compare model results with empirical field-test data.
- Participate in code reviews, unit testing, and automated simulation test suites.
Minimum Qualifications
- Proficiency in C++ (C++11 or newer), demonstrated via coursework, projects, research, or internships.
- Strong understanding of core computer science fundamentals: data structures, algorithms, object-oriented design, and debugging.
- Familiarity with Linux/Unix environments (RHEL, Rocky Linux, Ubuntu, CentOS).
- Basic Git version control skills.
- Strong written and verbal communication and collaboration skills.
- United States citizenship required.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD SECRET security clearance.
- Resident of Triana, AL area or willingness to relocate.
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a closely related ABET-accredited STEM discipline.
- Experience level: 0–2 years. Recent graduates and entry-level candidates are encouraged to apply.
- Minimum GPA: 3.5+
Preferred Skills
- Coursework or project experience in parallel computing or GPU concepts (NVIDIA CUDA, OpenMP, or multi-threading).
- Experience with digital signal processing, linear algebra, electromagnetics, physics simulations, or numerical methods.
- Familiarity with build systems (CMake) and dependency tools (Conan).
- Experience with Python or bash scripting for automated testing and data visualization.
- Active DoD Secret security clearance is a plus.
Location & Work Type
- On-site, full-time position based in Triana, AL.
- This role involves laboratory and integration work in controlled facilities and software integration labs.
Travel & Physical Requirements
- Travel: up to 5% annually.
- Physical: prolonged periods sitting and working at computers; ability to lift/move standard computer hardware and lab equipment up to ~20 lbs.
Security & Eligibility
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a DoD SECRET security clearance.
Keywords & Career Benefits
This role is ideal for candidates looking to advance in radar modeling and simulation, high-performance computing, and defense software engineering. Key technologies and topics: C++, modeling and simulation, radar signal processing, GPU/CUDA, Linux, Git, HWIL, real-time simulation.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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