Software Developer I
The Software Developer I at Confidential Client is responsible for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining real-time embedded software for flight-critical avionics systems in remotely piloted aircraft. This entry-level role requires collaboration with cross-functional teams and adherence to strict security and development standards to ensure reliable and fault-tolerant control of various aircraft subsystems.
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
Confidential Client is seeking an entry-level Software Developer I to design, implement, test, and maintain real-time embedded software used on remotely piloted aircraft and related avionics systems. You will work with cross-functional teams to deliver flight-critical functionality and participate across the full software lifecycle.
- Design, develop, test, and maintain software for flight-critical real-time embedded systems
- Implement features and fixes in C (primary), with C++ and Python used as needed
- Collaborate with systems engineers, hardware engineers, testers, and other stakeholders
- Use version control and defect-tracking tools; participate in peer reviews
- Create and execute unit, integration, and system-level tests (requirements-based)
- Troubleshoot using in-circuit debuggers, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and other test equipment
- Maintain strict confidentiality for sensitive information and follow secure development practices
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or equivalent experience (degree may be substituted with relevant experience)
- Strong programming skills in C; familiarity with C++ and Python preferred
- Basic knowledge of embedded systems concepts: preemption, multitasking, bare-metal and RTOS architectures
- Familiarity with embedded communications: SPI, I2C, USART; exposure to CANbus, ARINC-429 or MIL-STD-1553 is a plus
- Ability to read electrical schematics and datasheets
- Good written and verbal communication skills and ability to work independently or on a team
- Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance is required
- U.S. Citizenship is required for this position
Desirable / Preferred Experience
- Experience with real-time and fault-tolerant systems, control systems, motor control, or power electronics
- Knowledge of network protocols (TCP/UDP/ARP/SNMP) and embedded networking
- Experience with automated testing, continuous integration, and requirements-based verification
- Familiarity with audio/video processing or communications is helpful
- Hands-on experience with embedded development tools and electronic test equipment
- Prior exposure to software configuration management tools such as git or subversion
Compensation & Location
- Pay range: $69,500 – $116,375 per year (provided by the hiring organization)
- Estimated market salary: ~$120,414 / year
- Employment type: Full-time
- Job location: Poway, CA (role supports telecommute/remote work; candidates should be eligible to work in the U.S.)
- Travel: Up to 25% (as required)
- Relocation assistance: Not provided for this opening
Why Join
- Contribute to safety- and mission-critical avionics software used on advanced platforms
- Early-career development with mentorship from experienced embedded engineers
- Hands-on work with hardware and real-time systems in an engineering-focused environment
- Opportunity to gain security clearance and work on defense-related projects
Important Notes & Employer Statement
Confidential Client is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. The client is an Equal Opportunity Employer and will consider all qualified applicants without regard to any legally protected status. Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities during the recruitment process.
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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