> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/3270253-principal-software-engineer-section-and-technical-lead](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/3270253-principal-software-engineer-section-and-technical-lead). 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 Software Engineer - Section and Technical Lead - **Company:** RTX - **Location:** McKinney, TX, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $107,500.0 - $204,500.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Agile Methodology, Algorithm Design, Automation of Tests, Code Review, Continuous Integration, Hardware Design, Scrum Methodology, Software Engineering, Systems Integration - **Published:** September 14, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.clearancejobs.com/jobs/9162248/principal-software-engineer-section-and-technical-lead ## About the Role * Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and a minimum of 8 years of prior relevant experience. * Experience implementing and validating real-time algorithms and supporting Software and Hardware integration on embedded platforms. * Experience communicating, collaborating with teams, and translating technical considerations to clear and actionable guidance. * The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued Secret security clearance is required. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance., * Experience with EO/IR or sensor-based targeting systems. * Familiarity with agile processes including Scrum, Continuous Integration, and automated testing methods. * Experience coordinating across multiple product lines or quick-reaction capability programs. * Prior experience in a functional or leadership role (managing performance, conducting reviews, mentoring, general support of staff, hiring, etc.). * Proven track record of effectively interacting with subordinates, customers and other organizations/disciplines * Active and transferable U.S. government issued Secret security clearance. ## Description We are seeking an experienced principal-level software technical leader with deep knowledge of real-time embedded systems, advanced algorithms, and system-level integration to support Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) programs. This individual will serve as both as a senior technical individual contributor and as a section lead. As a Section Lead, the candidate will be responsible for managing software engineering staffing, talent development, performance management, and maintaining consistent execution across multiple fast-moving software baselines. This position provides an opportunity to grow your skillset by contributing to the development of our workforce and creating and fostering an inclusive environment. What You Will do : * Provide senior technical leadership by delegating, reviewing, and guiding engineering work to ensure disciplined implementation of key embedded system algorithms. * Review code, validate algorithm behavior, and drive strong engineering practices through clear technical rationale and continuous improvement. * Coordinate with systems and cross-functional leads to support integration, verification, and delivery of multiple simultaneous efforts. * Manage section staffing, workload balancing, and long-term workforce planning, ensuring a healthy and well-supported engineering organization. * Perform performance management, coaching, and career development to grow talent and maintain strong engineering capabilities. * Champion engineering discipline excellence through process ownership, best-practice promotion, inclusive culture building, and stable leadership across programs. * Oversee the direct line management activities for the section including communication, performance management, career development, and talent acquisition * Work as a technical lead or individual contributor on the program; Section Lead duties account for approximately 10-15% of the employee's time * This job is onsite in McKinney, TX; applicants must be in the area or willing to relocate to it. ## Related Videos - [Quantum Computing - The tiny and the big challenges](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/934-quantum-computing-the-tiny-and-the-big-challenges) - [Are Code Reviews Worth It? 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