Principal Software Engineer -Core Systems & Libraries; Onsite

Position Overview

Design the Foundation of Next-Generation Avionics

Join the growing Collins Aerospace Core Systems and Libraries team and play a key role in shaping the software foundation that powers modern aircraft. We are seeking a Principal Software Engineer who thrives on solving complex technical challenges and driving high-impact solutions across safety-critical systems.

In this role, you will lead the architecture and development of core software components, libraries, and tools that enable scalable, certifiable avionics platforms. You’ll work across the full software lifecycle, partnering with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality solutions aligned with civil and military certification standards.

This is a unique opportunity to influence system-level design, advance open architecture initiatives, and contribute to technologies that define the future of aerospace.

Onsite in Huntsville, AL

• Lead the architecture and design of core software components, libraries, and tooling aligned to avionics system requirements.
• Drive technical direction and execution across development and verification activities for safety-critical software (DO-178).
• Define and manage software requirements, decomposition, and traceability across complex systems.
• Develop and verify software using modern C++ and object-oriented design principles.
• Own and produce DO-178 certification artifacts, including DAL-A deliverables.
• Lead and support certification efforts, including engagement with customers and regulatory authorities.
• Conduct and contribute to peer reviews to ensure quality, consistency, and compliance across the lifecycle.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, program leadership, and customers to align technical solutions with program objectives.
• Willing and able to travel as required (domestic and international < 10%).

• Gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge and emerging technologies that are shaping the future of avionics and aerospace systems.
• Build end-to-end expertise across the full product lifecycle, from requirements and design through verification and delivery of safety-critical systems.
• Develop a deep understanding of software certification (DO-178) and how world-class avionics products meet rigorous regulatory standards.
• Learn how to design, scale, and sustain software product lines that support a wide range of platforms and global customers.

• Degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) with a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience, or an advanced degree and a minimum of 5 years of experience.
• U.S. citizenship is required.
• Proven experience designing and developing software architecture, libraries, or platform-level components within an aerospace or safety-critical environment.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical execution of projects, including customer engagement and presenting to senior stakeholders.
• Hands‑on experience supporting DO-178 software development and certification activities (e.g., requirements, verification, or certification artifacts).
• Experience working across cross-functional engineering and program teams to deliver complex, integrated solutions.

• Experience with C++ and VxWorks.
• Experience writing high-level and low-level requirements.
• Experience writing test cases and automated test procedures.
• Experience with civil certification DO-178 – DAL A preferred.
• Experience with design and development of flight management systems, software, aircraft applications or middleware.
• Familiar with revision control concepts and tools (e.g., GIT, Subversion, JIRA).

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Three weeks of vacation for newly hired employees.
• Generous 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds and separate employer retirement contribution, including a Lifetime Income Strategy option.
• Tuition reimbursement program.
• Student loan repayment program.
• Life insurance and disability coverage.
• Optional coverages (pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal,  protection).
• Birth, adoption,…