Software Engineer

Actalent
Arlington, VA

Job Title: Software Engineer

Job Description

We are seeking a Software Engineer to design, develop, and test advanced software for complex embedded systems operating in real-time environments. This code is intended for cutting-edge ISR sensors used in various manned and unmanned aircraft for highly specialized missions.

Responsibilities

  • Translate system and software requirements into detailed software designs aligned with architectural standards and modular, open-system principles.
  • Implement robust, high-performance software for mission-critical applications requiring exceptional reliability and availability.
  • Develop and maintain automated test frameworks to validate functionality and performance of embedded software components.
  • Apply and continuously improve secure development practices within a modern DevSecOps workflow.
  • Participate in peer reviews of requirements, architecture, code implementations, and test strategies.
  • Document software designs, interfaces, and integration details.
  • Create analysis tools to support system performance evaluation and troubleshooting.
  • Investigate and resolve software defects through structured root cause analysis and corrective actions.

Essential Skills

  • Proficiency in C++ (Version 14 at least / 17 preferred).
  • Experience with Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS).
  • Knowledge in Gitlab and CI/CD practices.
  • Experience in defense, aerospace, and DoD environments.
  • Skills in multi-threading, algorithm development, and DevOps.
  • Familiarity with radar, GPU, MATLAB, CUDA, and RDMA.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

  • Ability to obtain a DoD Secret Clearance.
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related technical field, plus 5+ years of relevant experience.
  • Experience integrating components into larger software ecosystems, with skills in unit and system-level testing.
  • Familiarity with Git-based workflows, CI/CD pipelines, automated testing frameworks, and code quality tools.
  • Active security clearance is a plus.
  • Knowledge of signal processing or mathematical modeling.
  • Experience with GPU programming and high-performance computing.
  • Familiarity with RDMA and advanced networking concepts.
  • Background in systems that integrate software and hardware for real-world interaction.
  • Ability to optimize and translate algorithms from MATLAB into efficient implementations.
  • Advanced degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field.
  • Understanding of automation frameworks for workflow optimization.
  • Domain expertise in electronic systems, sensor resource management, large-scale test environments, cyber-physical systems, or open architecture platforms.

Work Environment

This role offers a flexible work-life balance with a hybrid option. Primarily remote work is available, but access to either the Woburn, MA or Arlington, VA office is necessary, with occasional travel to Woburn if not nearby. The company is focused on delivering National Defense capabilities by developing advanced technology systems. Employees work in a collaborative environment with a focus on mission-critical applications.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Arlington, VA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $65.00 - $80.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
Medical, dental & vision
Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
Short and long-term disability
Health Spending Account (HSA)
Transportation benefits
Employee Assistance Program
Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a hybrid position in Arlington,VA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Apr 13, 2026.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:

  • Hiring diverse talent
  • Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
  • Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
  • Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.

Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.

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