> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/2717131-principal-level-c-net-software-engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/2717131-principal-level-c-net-software-engineer). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # principal-level C#/.NET software engineer - **Company:** Zone 5 Technologies - **Location:** United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $162,000.0 - $192,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Artificial Intelligence, Amazon Web Services, Bash Shell, C Sharp (Programming Language), C++ (Programming Language), Continuous Integration, Middleware, Embedded Software, Fault Tolerance, Github, Python (Programming Language), MATLAB, Microsoft Visual Studio, Performance Tuning, Windows PowerShell, Software Engineering, Subsystems, Model-Driven Development, Safety Critical Systems, HybridCloud, Gitlab-ci, Deployment Automation, Build Tools, Machine Learning Operations, DO-178B, Stream Processing, Service Stack, Jenkins - **Published:** September 4, 2026 - **Apply:** https://startup.jobs/software-engineer-v-vi-zone-5-technologies-8336898 ## About the Role * 8-15+ years of professional software engineering experience, with significant time spent on complex, high-reliability or safety-critical systems (aerospace, defense, automotive, medical devices, or similar strongly preferred). * Deep expertise in C# (preferred) and strong proficiency in additional languages such as C/C++, Python, or Matlab/Simulink for real-time/embedded/model-based workflows. * Proven track record designing and delivering real-time embedded software, flight-critical applications, autonomy stacks, or mission systems for UAS, drones, robotics, or related platforms. * Advanced hands-on mastery of Git/GitHub workflows at scale, Visual Studio, and scripting/automation (Bash, PowerShell, Python) for build/deploy/test pipelines. * Strong experience building and optimizing CI/CD systems (GitHub Actions required; Jenkins, GitLab CI, or similar a plus) and deploying/managing software in AWS or hybrid cloud environments. * Demonstrated ability to lead technical initiatives, influence architecture across teams, and deliver under aggressive schedules in regulated industries. * Excellent problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills - able to distill complex technical concepts for cross-functional stakeholders and drive consensus on tough trade-offs. * U.S. person status required (ability to obtain and maintain security clearance preferred; existing clearance a significant advantage). ## Description * Lead the architecture, design, implementation, and verification of embedded and application-level software for high-reliability, safety-critical UAS systems - from flight controls and mission autonomy to ground station integration and real-time data processing. * Own end-to-end technical ownership of major software components or subsystems, driving decisions on technology stack, performance optimization, fault tolerance, and certification pathways (DO-178C familiarity a strong plus). * Collaborate deeply with systems, hardware, GNC, flight test, and cybersecurity teams to define requirements, resolve cross-domain challenges, and integrate software into full-system flight demonstrations. * Champion modern development excellence: architect and evolve CI/CD pipelines (GitHub Actions + AWS), automated testing frameworks, build systems, and deployment strategies for cloud-edge hybrid environments. * Mentor and guide mid-level and senior engineers, conduct in-depth code/design reviews, establish best practices, and foster a culture of rigorous, high-quality engineering in a fast-paced environment. * Contribute to strategic technical roadmaps, evaluate emerging technologies (e.g., real-time middleware, model-based design, AI/ML integration for autonomy), and influence product direction for long-range strike, counter-UAS, and multi-domain systems. * Support qualification, certification, and airworthiness processes through rigorous verification, validation, and documentation in compliance with defense and aerospace standards. ## Related Videos - [Hiring AI Native Talents](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100268-hiring-ai-native-talents) - [Innovating Developer Tools with AI: Insights from GitHub Next](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1268-innovating-developer-tools-with-ai-insights-from-github-next) - [Leveraging Large Language Models for Legacy Code Translation: Challenges and Solutions](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1157-leveraging-large-language-models-for-legacy-code-translation-challenges-and-solutions) - [The Road to MLOps: How Verivox Transitioned to AWS](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1050-the-road-to-mlops-how-verivox-transitioned-to-aws) - [Remote Driving on Plant Grounds with State-of-the-Art Cloud Technologies](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/251-remote-driving-on-plant-grounds-with-state-of-the-art-cloud-technologies) - [Bringing AI Model Testing and Prompt Management to Your Codebase with GitHub Models](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1536-bringing-ai-model-testing-and-prompt-management-to-your-codebase-with-github-models) ## Related Articles - [What’s the Difference between a Junior, Mid, and Senior Developer?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/238-what-s-the-difference-between-a-junior-mid-and-senior-developer) - [How We Built a Worry-Free System That Runs for 10+ Years – And What We’d Do Again](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/751-how-we-built-a-worry-free-system-that-runs-for-10-years-and-what-we-d-do-again) - [Is Software Engineering Over-Saturated?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/418-is-software-engineering-over-saturated) - [The 12 Best Jobs for Software Engineers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/401-the-12-best-jobs-for-software-engineers) - [Highest Paying Tech Companies for Developers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/220-highest-paying-tech-companies-for-developers) - [Fully Remote Software Engineer Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/447-fully-remote-software-engineer-jobs)