Software Engineer (Hybrid)
The Principal Software Lead Engineer role at Confidential Client involves leading embedded communications software development and small engineering teams to deliver mission-critical, secure processing solutions. The position requires expertise in embedded C/C++, Python, real-time systems, and program management to translate customer requirements into scalable, cost-effective, and reliable end-to-end systems. This senior technical leadership role emphasizes balancing technical performance with cost, schedule, and risk management within an agile environment.
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.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Position Overview
Confidential Client is seeking a senior embedded software engineering leader to join their Integrated Secure Processing Solutions (SPS) team in Cedar Rapids, IA. This role focuses on designing and delivering mission-critical embedded communications software, leading small engineering teams, and owning program-level technical execution while balancing cost, schedule, and performance.
Key details (for visibility)
- Location: Cedar Rapids, IA
- Work model: Primarily onsite / Hybrid
- Security: Active & transferable U.S. Secret clearance required before start
- Citizenship: U.S. citizenship required
- Salary range: $107,500–$204,500 annually
- Schedule: 9/80 work schedule; sign-on bonus eligible; relocation assistance available
Primary Responsibilities
- Lead embedded software development using C/C++ and Python across the full software lifecycle.
- Design and deliver high-reliability, real-time embedded communications software.
- Provide technical leadership and mentorship for small engineering teams.
- Drive software quality, performance, and technical excellence.
- Lead technical proposal activities and provide program-level cost estimation during bids.
- Own Cost Account responsibilities and track program financial performance.
- Develop, maintain, and execute Integrated Master Schedule items for multi-year programs.
- Use earned value management principles to estimate, track, and communicate program metrics.
- Identify technical and program risks early and define mitigation strategies.
- Translate customer requirements into scalable end-to-end system solutions.
- Serve as product owner for scope and backlog management within Agile environments.
- Collaborate with program management, systems engineering, customers, and cross-functional stakeholders.
Basic Qualifications
- STEM degree with at least 8 years of relevant experience, or an advanced degree with 5+ years of relevant experience.
- Hands-on experience with embedded C/C++ development and Python scripting for embedded systems.
- Experience developing or managing Integrated Master Schedules for multi-year programs.
- Proven experience with Cost Account Management and program cost/schedule oversight.
- Familiarity with risk and opportunity management frameworks.
- Experience performing product owner responsibilities (scope & backlog management).
- Strong analytical, communication, and team leadership skills.
- Active and transferable U.S. Secret security clearance required prior to start.
- U.S. citizenship required.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience developing multi-threaded real-time embedded applications.
- Prior experience leading technical proposals and bidding activities.
- Experience with SEER parametric estimation tools.
- Demonstrated technical leadership in Agile software teams.
- Experience with TCP/IP network applications and embedded communications.
- Familiarity with UML and systems architecture practices.
- Experience with cross-domain solutions and secure processing systems.
- Track record mentoring engineers and leading complex technical initiatives.
Benefits & Perks
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Three weeks of vacation for newly hired employees.
- 401(k) with employer matching and additional retirement contributions.
- Lifetime Income Strategy option.
- Tuition reimbursement and student loan repayment program.
- Life insurance and disability coverage.
- Parental leave, fertility and family planning support, adoption assistance.
- Employee Assistance Program and wellness incentives.
- Virtual care and second-opinion medical services.
- Child and elder care support options.
- Relocation assistance and employee referral program.
- Opportunities for technical leadership and professional development.
What to Expect — Hiring Notes
This role requires security clearance eligibility and U.S. citizenship due to program requirements. The hiring process may include in-person interviews and assessments. Careertakes is assisting as a third-party recruiting platform; employment will be directly with our client.
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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