Networking Software Protocol Engineer

SG2 Recruiting is supporting Wind RiverX in the search for a Senior Network Protocol / Software Engineer to support a classified aerospace and defense program in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This customer-facing technical leadership role combines hands-on protocol development with solution architecture, customer engagement, system integration, and deployment support. Candidates must possess an active Secret clearance, have 5+ years of network protocol and engineering experience.

What You Will Be Doing:

Designing, developing, and testing networking software and protocols for mission-critical aerospace and defense systems.

Supporting customer engagements including requirements gathering, solution architecture, implementation, testing, and deployment.

Developing and maintaining Layer 2 and Layer 3 networking capabilities for routers, gateways, and secure communications platforms.

Implementing and supporting protocols including IPv4, IPv6, ARP, ICMP, IGMP, DHCP, TCP, UDP, NTP, IPsec, and IKE.

Analyzing and optimizing Ethernet traffic, network performance, and protocol functionality.

Collaborating with engineering teams, mentoring developers, and creating technical documentation.

What You Need:

Active Secret security clearance.

5+ years of experience developing networking protocols, networking software, or embedded networking solutions.

Strong knowledge of OSI Layers 2-7, with expertise in Layer 2 and Layer 3 networking.

Experience with network routers, gateways, Ethernet networking, and network security protocols.

Proficiency in C/C++ development within Linux or embedded environments.

Experience implementing or integrating IPv4, IPv6, and IPsec-based solutions.

Excellent communication skills and ability to interact directly with customers and technical stakeholders.

It's a Plus If You Have:

Experience supporting classified defense, aerospace, or military programs.

Familiarity with Neighbor Discovery (ND), VLANs, and advanced routing technologies.

Experience with real time operating systems (RTOS), embedded systems, or secure communications platforms.

What's In It For You:

Work on advanced aerospace and defense technologies supporting national security missions.

Influence the design and development of next-generation networking solutions.

Join a collaborative team focused on innovation, technical excellence, and customer success.

Wind RiverX delivers advanced software and engineering solutions for mission-critical aerospace, defense, and intelligent edge systems, supporting some of the world's most demanding operational environments.