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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Principal Software Engineer - **Company:** Sierra Nevada Corporation. - **Location:** Lone Tree, CO, United States - **Salary:** $165,010.0 - $226,889.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** C (Programming Language), HTML, Java (Programming Language), Artificial Intelligence, Bash Shell, C Sharp (Programming Language), C++ (Programming Language), Cloud Computing, Static Program Analysis, Software Documentation, Code Review, Data Structures, Desktop Computing, Industry Standard Architecture, Python (Programming Language), Machine Learning, Scrum Methodology, Real-Time Operating Systems, Software Tools, Software Engineering, Software Systems, Systems Architecture, C4ISR, Information Technology, Software Performance, Vulnerability Analysis - **Published:** August 7, 2026 - **Apply:** https://snc.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/SNC_External_Career_Site/job/Lone-Tree-CO/Principal-Software-Engineer_R0030193 ## About the Role * Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field; Master's degree preferred. * 14+ years of experience in experience in software development. * Higher level relevant degree may substitute for experience. * Expert proficiency in programming languages such as C++, Java, or Python. * Extensive leadership experience in software development. * Demonstrated knowledge of engineering principles and practices. * Experience working in multi-disciplinary teams. * An active Secret with the eligibility to obtain a Top Secret / Top Secret with SCI eligibility U.S. Security Clearance is required. Qualifications We Prefer: * Expertise in advanced software technologies (e.g., AI, machine learning, cloud computing). * Experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS) and embedded systems. * Significant experience in the Aerospace and Defense industry. * Understanding of industry standard software languages such as C, C#, C++, HTML, Java, Python, and Bash. * Experience with software tools for requirements tracking, code reviews, static analysis, library and artifact repository, and automated build. * Knowledge of software development methodologies such as Agile/Scrum, Waterfall, and Spiral. * Proficient with data structures. * Experience using the Open Mission System messaging protocol and Universal Command and Control Interface standards. * Experience supporting mission system architectures and capabilities Essential Functions: * Ability to work on a computer for extended periods. * Hand/finger dexterity for coding and testing. * Ability to work in a hybrid environment with occasional travel. This posting will be open for application for a minimum of 5 days and may be extended based on business needs. ## Description Do you enjoy developing new products and services? Join us! Our Software Engineers work in an agile, collective environment. As a Principal Software Engineer, you will provide technical leadership and strategic direction for the development and optimization of advanced software systems for aerospace applications. You will lead major projects, mentor engineering teams, and drive innovation to achieve superior software performance. The ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance), Aviation, and Security (IAS) business area is a leader in ISR and aviation, it is a leading prime manned and unmanned aircraft systems integrator for innovative, high-performance ISR and aviation systems. Its end-to-end Command, Control, Computers, Communications and Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance (C4ISR) capabilities encompass design, integration, test, certification, ground/flight training and complete logistics support. IAS tailors solutions to customer cost, performance, and schedule requirements and designs to consistently exceed expectations - with an unrivaled record of on time and on (or under) budget deliveries., * Provide technical leadership and direction for the development of advanced software systems. * Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure software meets performance, quality, and regulatory standards. * Lead the creation and maintenance of detailed software documentation, including design specifications and user manuals. * Mentor and guide engineering teams on technical best practices and innovation. * Conduct high-level code reviews and provide strategic feedback. * Define and implement software requirements and specifications in collaboration with stakeholders. * Drive major continuous improvement initiatives to enhance software performance and reliability. * Represent the software engineering function in high-level strategic meetings and decision-making processes. ## Related Videos - [Security Pitfalls for Software Engineers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/726-security-pitfalls-for-software-engineers) - [Old tools, new tricks](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1916-old-tools-new-tricks) - [The Resilience of the World Wide Web](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1281-the-resilience-of-the-world-wide-web) - [The Software Engineer 2030: From Coder To AI Orchestrator? - Patrick Schnell](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1825-the-software-engineer-2030-from-coder-to-ai-orchestrator-patrick-schnell) - [MCP doesn’t suck — your agent does](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100202-mcp-doesn-t-suck-your-agent-does) - [NoLoJS - Avoiding JavaScript Cruft with HTML and CSS - Aaron T. Grogg](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1806-nolojs-avoiding-javascript-cruft-with-html-and-css-aaron-t-grogg) ## Related Articles - [Highest Paying Tech Companies for Developers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/220-highest-paying-tech-companies-for-developers) - [Best Countries for Software Engineers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/267-best-countries-for-software-engineers) - [Software Engineer Career: Things You Should Know](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/143-software-engineer-career-things-you-should-know) - [Is Software Engineering Hard?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/448-is-software-engineering-hard) - [Is Software Engineering Over-Saturated?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/418-is-software-engineering-over-saturated) - [What is Software Engineering?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/289-what-is-software-engineering)