Software Engineer, Embedded Software Engineer, Aerospace ​/ Aviation ​/ Avionics

Avionics Graphics Software Engineer

This role focuses on designing, developing, and optimizing avionics software that powers cockpit displays and advanced graphical subsystems. You will build high‑performance, real‑time graphics applications in C and OpenGL, integrate them with avionics data sources and sensors, and ensure reliable, safety‑critical performance in demanding embedded environments. You will collaborate closely with cross‑functional teams to support full lifecycle development, from implementation and integration through testing and documentation.

• Develop, maintain, and enhance avionics software that supports cockpit displays and graphical subsystems.
• Implement and optimize real‑time graphics rendering using OpenGL within avionics and embedded environments.
• Write high‑performance, maintainable C code for embedded avionics applications and display systems.
• Integrate graphics software with avionics data sources, sensors, and other system inputs to ensure accurate and timely visualization.
• Ensure correct display behavior, timing, and performance in real‑time, safety‑critical environments.
• Debug and resolve issues in the graphics pipeline, including rendering, timing, and performance bottlenecks.
• Collaborate with systems, integration, and verification teams to support end‑to‑end system functionality and system‑level validation.
• Support software documentation, including design descriptions, implementation notes, and interface specifications.
• Assist with test planning and execution, including unit, integration, and system‑level testing for graphics and display components.
• Contribute to program deliverables and milestones by providing technical input, troubleshooting support, and implementation updates.

• At least 3 years of professional software engineering experience.
• At least 3 years of experience developing avionics software.
• At least 3 years of experience supporting graphics, display systems, or avionics visualization such as cockpit displays, human‑machine interfaces, or synthetic vision systems.
• At least 3 years of hands‑on experience with OpenGL in a real‑time or embedded context.
• Strong proficiency in C programming, operating at an advanced level.
• Experience working with avionics software and graphics or display systems in a real‑time environment.
• Ability to debug and optimize graphics rendering and display performance issues.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills to work effectively with systems, integration, and verification teams.
• Ability to produce clear, accurate technical documentation and support test activities.

• Experience with embedded or real‑time operating systems.
• Previous work on cockpit displays, avionics displays, or visualization systems.
• Experience working in performance‑constrained or safety‑critical environments.
• Familiarity with debugging graphics on embedded hardware platforms.
• Understanding of avionics display standards, architectures, or related industry practices.
• Experience or interest in aviation, aerospace, flight systems, navigation, or advanced air mobility platforms.
• Experience contributing to safety‑critical programs, certification activities, or airworthiness compliance is a plus.

This is an onsite role based at the company’s headquarters in Phoenix, Arizona. You will work in a professional engineering environment focused on safety‑critical embedded software, hardware, and certification services for aviation, space, and defense applications. The team frequently collaborates with major aerospace OEMs and Tier‑1 suppliers, supporting avionics, flight systems, navigation, and advanced air mobility platforms. The work involves close interaction with systems, integration, and verification teams, using embedded development tools, real‑time and avionics‑oriented platforms, and graphics technologies such as C and OpenGL.

The environment emphasizes rigorous engineering practices, documentation, and testing to meet demanding performance and reliability requirements.

This is a Contract position based out of Phoenix, AZ.

The pay range for this position is $55.00 - $60.00/hr.

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre‑tax and Roth post‑tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long‑term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms.

This is a fully onsite position in Phoenix,AZ.

Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.