Tech Staff (Software Architect)

The Electronics for Contested Space Group develops radio-frequency (RF) and advanced electronic systems for space control missions and technology in the protection of our nation’s most important space capabilities. This work includes the design and development of state-of-the-art satellites and satellite payloads, novel concepts for resilient space architectures, and the nation’s most sensitive radars, optics, and passive RF systems. Our group also collaborates across the Laboratory to provide engineering rigor and experience to some of the most critical Laboratory programs. Examples of recent projects include the prototyping of electronic systems and effects, hardware-in-the-loop testing of tactically relevant payloads with surrogate threat systems, and RF subsystem development for satellites. 

Position Description

We are seeking a Software Architect to support various programs through all phases of software development, including requirements definition, architecture studies, coding, testing, troubleshooting, and system integration. Ideal candidates will have hands-on experience in software engineering, with a proven track record of increasing responsibilities.  Key duties involve overseeing technical development efforts, conducting data collection and analysis, and preparing and presenting briefings to sponsors.  The ideal candidate is self-motivated, communicates effectively, and works well within interdisciplinary teams to create end-to-end systems.  Occasional travel may be required for field exercises and presentations. Candidates with experience in software development for systems analysis, embedded systems, or aerospace applications are highly preferred.

Requirements

Master’s Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or another relevant technical field with 8 years of relevant experience.  A Bachelor’s Degree and at least 10 years of relevant experience will be considered

• Ability to architect and design software systems based on high-level requirements and specifications, while balancing computational complexity within constrained systems
• Strong software engineering experience with demonstrated proficiency in C/C++, Rust, Java or another system-level language, to include coding and unit testing
• Working knowledge of Model-Based Development techniques using MATLAB/Simulink (or similar)
• Familiarity with Python, Ruby or similar scripting platforms to develop various tools and utilities to support software/hardware design and test efforts.
• Experience with container technology (i.e. Docker, Podman, etc.) and container orchestration tools (i.e. Kubernetes)
• Experience with DevSecOps pipeline processes and technologies
• Experience with the software development lifecycle, including documentation, testing and revision control
• Proficiency with source code control tools such as GIT and defect tracking/management tools such as JIRA
• Ability to develop code and operate in a Linux computing environment
• Comfortable with both agile and waterfall development strategies
• Demonstrated proficiency in oral and written communication, particularly the ability to convey technical concepts to non-technical audiences
• Demonstrated problem-solving and team skills
• Experience developing software in concert with cybersecurity requirements
• Proficiency with MATLAB, Python, or other scientific programming languages

Desired Skills

• Experience with space systems and aerospace applications
• Knowledge of system security engineering, including threat modeling and security requirements analysis, implementation and validation
• Embedded systems experience, including FPGAs, SoCs and real time computing
• Familiarity with scripting and task automation
• Experience with experimental data collection and processing
• Digital signal processing experience in either analysis and/or implementation
• Experience with implementing interfaces to various hardware subsystems and peripherals (sensors, actuators, ADCs, DACs) using SpaceWire, Ethernet, SPI, I2C, UART