Technical Specialist

We are seeking a Ground Control Station (GCS) Modernization Lead to drive the evolution of legacy mission systems into modern, resilient, and user‑centric ground control station applications. This onsite role in Poway, CA is ideal for a seasoned engineer with deep legacy experience who is ready to lead complex modernization efforts in a defense environment.

• Lead the modernization of Ground Control Station software from legacy Java (Swing/AWT) and C++ applications running in Windows environments to contemporary architectures suitable for modern cockpit and operator displays.
• Define and implement migration strategies to HTML5/React front ends, including packaging via Electron or similar frameworks
  , ensuring performance, usability, and reliability in operational settings.
• Ensure all software development activities comply with DO‑178C software safety standards, including documentation, verification, and traceability.
• Oversee integration with STANAG 4586 and related UAV interoperability protocols, coordinating closely with systems and test teams to validate end‑to‑end behavior.
• Provide technical leadership to a cross‑functional engineering team, setting coding standards, reviewing designs, and guiding architectural decisions.
• Collaborate with program management, systems engineering, and certification teams to plan releases, manage technical risk, and support formal reviews and audits.
• Maintain and enhance existing legacy components where required, while progressively refactoring and replacing them as part of the modernization roadmap.

• U.S. Citizen with an active DoD Secret clearance
  .
• 10+ years of professional experience developing software in Java (Swing/AWT) and C++ in Windows environments.
• Proven experience leading or executing modernization of desktop applications to web‑based (HTML5/React) architectures, preferably wrapped in Electron or equivalent for desktop deployment.
• Hands‑on familiarity with DO‑178C or similar safety‑critical software development standards, including processes, documentation, and verification practices.
• Experience integrating with or implementing STANAG 4586 or related UAV / mission system interoperability protocols.
• Strong technical leadership skills, including mentoring engineers, driving consensus on architectural decisions, and communicating clearly with stakeholders.

• Background in defense, aerospace, avionics, or other safety‑critical or mission‑critical systems.
• Experience with cockpit displays, HMI/UX for operators, or real‑time mission control systems.
• Familiarity with automated testing, CI/CD, and configuration management within regulated environments.