Software Engineer (Early Career)
The Software Engineer at Confidential Client will design, develop, and test custom software and firmware for embedded security solutions in collaboration with multidisciplinary teams. This early career role involves full software lifecycle ownership, working on innovative, non-standard projects that support cutting-edge R&D efforts for government and industrial clients. The position offers a hybrid work model based in Columbus, Ohio, emphasizing collaboration, problem-solving, and security compliance.
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, Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing; Defense and Space Manufacturing; Biotechnology Research.
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 Early Career Software Engineer to contribute to embedded security and systems-level R&D. In this role you will design, implement, test, and maintain software and firmware for custom, memory-constrained hardware and related systems. You’ll work in small, multidisciplinary teams to deliver innovative solutions for government and industrial customers and support the full software development lifecycle.
- Design, code, test, and debug software and firmware for embedded and systems projects
- Develop software architecture, write requirements-level code, and produce technical documentation
- Integrate software with custom hardware and perform system-level testing
- Research and evaluate new libraries, tools, and technologies to support R&D goals
- Collaborate with subject-matter experts across physics, electrical engineering, and mathematics
- Communicate project status, risks, and results to internal and external stakeholders
- Provide ongoing maintenance and enhancements for deployed custom solutions
- Travel as required by project tasks
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
- Strong programming skills in C and C++; proficiency in Python for tooling and scripting
- Basic networking knowledge (TCP/IP, socket programming)
- Comfortable working on Linux development environments and using common build/debug tools
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in agile, small-team settings
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving ability
- Willingness to travel as needed for project work
- Must be a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance
Preferred Qualifications
- Current security clearance (preferred)
- Experience with embedded software development and debugging tools
- Familiarity with version control systems (Git)
- Experience with RTOS or Linux kernel modules
- Exposure to signal processing, RF systems, or control systems software
- Proficiency with MATLAB for data analysis or algorithm development
- Experience with scripting and automation for build/test workflows
Compensation & Benefits
Salary range: $75,500 - $105,000 per year (base), plus a comprehensive benefits package. Final salary depends on experience, education, and location.
Benefits highlights:
- Flexible, compressed work schedule (most teams follow a model that provides every other Friday off)
- Hybrid work options (approx. 60% in-office / 40% remote depending on role and team)
- Paid time off and wellness incentives; medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Coverage for partners and family-formation support; gender-affirming care benefits
- Industry-leading 401(k) plan with employer contributions and matching
- Tuition assistance for continuing education
Work Environment & Safety
Confidential client supports a collaborative R&D environment focused on technical innovation and professional growth. Depending on role duties and client requirements, vaccination and other safety protocols may apply. Reasonable accommodations will be provided in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and applicable laws.
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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