Principal Aviation Software Development Engineer
Mbombela, Mpumalanga, South Africa
Listed on 2026-10-18
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Software Development
Software Engineer, Software Architect, Embedded Software Engineer, C++ Developer
About the Role
Our client, a globally recognized leader in the aerospace industry, is looking for a Principal Aviation Software Development Engineer to join their innovative team in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga . This senior role will be instrumental in architecting, designing, and developing safety-critical software for advanced aircraft systems. You will lead complex software projects, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality, reliable software solutions that meet stringent aviation standards.
The ideal candidate possesses extensive experience in embedded software development, a deep understanding of software safety standards (e.g., DO-178C), and proven leadership capabilities. This hybrid role offers the opportunity to work closely with teams on-site in Nelspruit while retaining flexibility for remote work on specific tasks.
- Lead the architectural design and development of safety-critical software for aviation systems.
- Write high-quality, efficient, and maintainable code in C/C++ or Ada for embedded real-time systems.
- Define software requirements, specifications, and design documentation.
- Develop and execute comprehensive software unit, integration, and system tests.
- Ensure compliance with rigorous software development standards, such as DO-178C.
- Collaborate with systems engineers, hardware engineers, and safety experts to define software functionalities and interfaces.
- Perform code reviews, static analysis, and debugging to ensure software integrity.
- Mentor and guide junior software development engineers.
- Contribute to the continuous improvement of software development processes and tools.
- Support software qualification and certification efforts.
- Master's or Ph.D. degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related technical field.
- 10+ years of experience in software development, with a significant focus on aviation embedded systems.
- Proven experience in a leadership or principal engineer role, guiding software development projects.
- In-depth knowledge of safety-critical software development processes and standards (e.g., DO-178C).
- Expertise in embedded C/C++ programming and real-time operating systems (RTOS).
- Experience with software architecture design patterns and methodologies.
- Proficiency in software development tools, including compilers, debuggers, version control (Git), and build systems.
- Strong understanding of software testing principles and practices.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and debugging skills.
- Exceptional communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
- Experience with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) is a plus.
- Our client offers an industry-leading salary package, complemented by significant annual bonuses and long-term incentive plans.
- Comprehensive benefits include premium medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with robust retirement savings plans.
- We provide an exceptional amount of paid annual leave, plus company holidays.
- Continuous learning is encouraged through generous funding for training, conferences, and further education.
- This hybrid role offers flexibility, allowing for a balance between office-based collaboration and remote work.
- Join a highly respected organization at the forefront of aviation innovation and contribute to critical software development.
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