Software Engineer Junior

Job Title: Systems & Software Engineer

Job Summary

The Systems & Software Engineer provides critical engineering support for the design, development, integration, testing, evaluation, and sustainment of software and systems supporting U.S. Air Force (AF) and joint service weapon systems. This role requires a strong foundation in systems engineering, software engineering, and software assurance, combined with knowledge of aeronautics, avionics, and airworthiness certification.

The ideal candidate will support the full system lifecycle—from requirements analysis and acquisition planning through deployment and sustainment—while ensuring mission readiness, system safety, regulatory compliance, and long-term sustainability of advanced aerospace and ground-based systems.

Key Responsibilities

Systems & Software Engineering

• Support the design, development, testing, evaluation, implementation, maintenance, and administration of complex software and system solutions.
• Translate user needs and operational requirements into detailed system, subsystem, and software requirements.
• Provide technical support for systems acquisition, requirements analysis and allocation, system architecture, and hardware/software integration.
• Analyze system and software deficiencies, recommend corrective actions, and support implementation of solutions.
• Apply knowledge of software and systems engineering principles across the full development lifecycle.
• Support technical reviews and program milestones, including SRR, PDR, CDR, and PMRs.

Software Assurance & Quality

• Apply expertise in software assurance practices, tools, and methodologies to ensure system integrity and compliance. 
• Utilize tools such as:
  • Source code analyzers
  • Binary analyzers
  • Architecture and design analysis tools
  • Origin and weakness analyzers
• Ensure compliance with applicable DoD, Air Force, and industry software assurance standards. 

Systems Integration & Avionics

• Apply knowledge of aeronautical systems, avionics, and operational flight programs for airborne and ground systems.
• Support integration and performance of mission-critical avionics and software systems.
• Contribute to system-level design, interoperability, and verification activities.

Airworthiness & System Safety

• Apply MIL-HDBK-516C Airworthiness Certification Criteria and AFPD 62-6 to aircraft systems.
• Support system safety engineering activities, including hazard analysis and mishap risk assessments.
• Assist in managing Operational Safety, Suitability, and Effectiveness (OSS&E) and system integrity programs (e.g., MECSIP).
• Maintain Critical Safety Item (CSI) tracking and support airworthiness certification processes.

Acquisition & Program Support

• Support development of acquisition strategies, Request for Proposals (RFPs), and key program documentation such as:
  • System Engineering Plan (SEP)
  • Test and Evaluation Master Plan (TEMP)
  • Software Development Plan (SDP)
• Perform technical evaluations, trade studies, and cost estimation analyses to support design reviews and milestone decisions.
• Provide engineering support during contractor source selections.
• Evaluate Integrated Master Plans/Schedules (IMP/IMS) and support program execution.

Documentation & Technical Analysis

• Develop, review, and maintain technical documentation, including:
  • System specifications
  • Interface Control Documents (ICDs)
  • Security classification guides
• Prepare technical reports, staff packages, and executive briefings to support leadership decision-making.
• Analyze and evaluate contractor deliverables, including ECPs, CCPs, and regulatory bulletins. 

Process & Lifecycle Management

• Implement and adhere to Life Cycle Systems Engineering (LCSE) and OSS&E processes.
• Support configuration management, risk management, and data management activities.
• Participate in process improvement initiatives, including value stream mapping and continuous improvement efforts.

Collaboration & Communication

• Participate in cross-functional engineering teams, technical reviews, and working groups.
• Collaborate with government, contractor, and stakeholder teams to ensure mission success.
• Communicate complex technical concepts clearly through written and verbal means.
   

Minimum Qualifications:

• BA/BS degree in an ABET-accredited engineering discipline (http://www.abet.org).
• Four (4) years of experience in the respective technical/professional discipline being performed
• OR, eight (8) years of directly related experience with proper certifications as described in the.
• U.S. Citizenship required; Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret DOD security clearance.
• Demonstrated knowledge of aeronautics and avionics engineering, including experience supporting avionics subsystem definition, development, integration, and verification.
• Proven ability to apply DoD, U.S. Air Force (AF), and industry-standard engineering and scientific principles, processes, and procedures to enhance the performance, reliability, and sustainability of current and future Air Force and joint-service weapon systems.
• Experience in aeronautical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Familiarity with aerospace regulations, safety standards, and airworthiness certification processes
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in team environments.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and deliver results in a dynamic environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Systems Engineering, or a related technical field (advanced degree preferred).
• Demonstrated hands-on experience in software engineering practices, system integration, and software assurance.
• Experience working in cross-functional engineering teams, supporting complex system development and integration efforts.