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Software Developer I

Confidential Client•Aerospace & Defense
Entry LevelFull-timeHybrid$139,903
Poway, California
A Day Ago

The Software Developer I at Confidential Client is responsible for designing and developing C++ 17 software infrastructure and services for both high-level non-embedded and embedded ARM 9 systems within Unmanned Aircraft Systems. The role involves automated testing, software maintenance, integration, and collaboration with domain experts throughout the software development lifecycle, requiring strong technical skills and the ability to obtain a DoD Security Clearance.

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Description

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, Engineering.

Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.


What You’ll Do

This Confidential Client is seeking an entry-level Software Developer I to join a Mission Processing Software team working on C++17 applications for Linux and embedded targets. You'll design, implement, test, and maintain software that supports mission-critical unmanned systems.

  • Design and develop C++ 17 infrastructure and services for both x86 (non-embedded) and ARM9 (embedded) platforms.
  • Implement and maintain multi-threaded applications and TCP/UDP socket communications on Linux.
  • Use PetaLinux and Xilinx toolchains for embedded builds and integration.
  • Write and run automated unit and integration tests; maintain test harnesses and CI workflows.
  • Document designs, code, and testing results; participate in code reviews and design reviews.
  • Integrate applications with the broader system environment and collaborate with domain experts and stakeholders across the software lifecycle.
  • Support software maintenance, bug fixes, and compliance with quality standards.
  • Work extended hours occasionally as project needs require.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related field — or equivalent experience.
  • Practical experience developing in C++ (C++17 preferred) on Linux.
  • Experience with multi-threaded programming and TCP/UDP socket programming.
  • Strong problem-solving ability and familiarity with software development concepts and OOP principles.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills; ability to produce technical documentation.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance is required.
  • U.S. Citizenship is required for this role.

Preferred (Nice-to-Have) Skills

  • Experience with GitLab, Git or other SCM tools.
  • Scripting experience (Bash, Python) for build and test automation.
  • Embedded software development experience, including experience with SoC/Zynq architectures.
  • Familiarity with Xilinx SDK, PetaLinux build flow, and bootloader/kernel space considerations.
  • Experience with SPI/I2C/UART/Ethernet interfaces and unit testing tools for embedded systems.

Work Arrangement & Compensation

  • Workstyle: Hybrid (on-site in Poway, CA with some flexibility)
  • Employment type: Full-Time, Hourly
  • Pay range (base salary): $69,500 — $116,375 per year (provided by Confidential Client)
  • Travel: 0%–25% as needed
  • Relocation assistance: Not provided
  • Clearance: Secret level desired; ability to obtain DoD clearance required

Why Join

  • Work on real-world systems that support advanced unmanned aircraft and surveillance platforms.
  • Gain hands-on experience with C++17, embedded Linux, and industry-standard toolchains.
  • Collaborative engineering environment with opportunities for growth and skills development.

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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