Staff Software Engineer - Aerospace | Defense

Citizenship Requirement - Government Contracting

Staff Software Engineer - Aerospace | Defense

The Opportunity

StaffRight Associates is recruiting for a Software Engineer to join an aerospace and defense organization in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. This is a fully on-site, full-time direct-hire position, and the client provides full relocation support for candidates from across the country. As the Software Engineer, you will shape the architecture of mission-critical Linux systems, steer embedded platform work built on Yocto, and serve as a trusted technical voice for both customers and business leaders. The role suits a hands-on leader who pairs deep Linux and C/C++ craft with sharp problem-solving, clear communication, and a passion for developing other engineers. You’ll influence innovation and long-range technology strategy while delivering dependable solutions that satisfy both mission and commercial goals.

What You’ll Do

• Architect complex software systems, setting technical direction and owning key design choices across the development lifecycle.
• Engineer, release, and sustain Linux-based applications written in C and C++, working all the way down to the kernel level.
• Construct and maintain custom Yocto distributions, managing the layers, recipes, and configuration files behind each build.
• Automate workflows, diagnose faults, and tune system performance through shell scripting and command-line tooling.
• Engage directly with customers and in-house stakeholders to decode mission needs, turning them into workable engineering answers.
• Formulate technical concepts, weigh competing alternatives, and pitch recommended approaches backed by a sound business rationale.
• Strengthen Business Development pursuits by contributing to proposals, bids, contract requirements, and program capture efforts.
• Mentor junior engineers and technicians, cultivating disciplined engineering habits and a culture of continuous improvement.
• Harmonize software designs with system requirements, manufacturing workflows, and production environments.
• Uphold the organization’s ISO standards and defined engineering procedures throughout every phase of development.
• Drive innovation, program roadmaps, and long-range technology choices by blending technical depth with business acumen.

What You Bring

Required

• A bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a closely related technical discipline.
• A minimum of 8 years of applicable experience alongside a bachelor’s degree, or 6+ years paired with a master’s degree; comparable experience may also be considered.
• Advanced, hands-on command of C and C++, along with deep experience in Linux Kernel Development and Linux-Based Application Development.
• Strong Linux Shell Scripting skills with fluency in Command-Line Tools, Automation, and Troubleshooting.
• A proven record of building, sustaining, and handling Software Deployment for live production systems.
• Working command of Embedded Linux builds using Yocto, including layers, recipes, and build configuration management.
• Solid grasp of Software Architecture and Design Principles, with attention to Scalability, Maintainability, and System Performance.
• Demonstrated Technical Leadership in resolving complex engineering problems and making well-reasoned architectural calls.
• Outstanding Communication Skills and a knack for converting customer requirements into practical engineering answers.
• The capacity to work autonomously, juggle competing priorities, and drive Cross-Functional Collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.
• Authorization to work in the U.S. without employer sponsorship; the client will not sponsor visas for this role.

Preferred

• Background integrating software within manufacturing or production settings.
• Exposure to Quality Management Systems and ISO-compliant development practices.
• Experience backing business capture pursuits, solution design, or technical proposals presented to customers.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Word and Excel.

Compensation & Total Rewards

• Salary: $135,000–$175,000 (USD, annual)
• Engagement: Full-time, direct hire; on-site in Sioux Falls, SD
• Benefits: Top benefits package; full relocation provided

Joining StaffRight Associates

When you partner with StaffRight Associates in your search for your next role, you’re doing more than pursuing a job, you’re aligning yourself with a team of experts committed to placing top-tier talent in truly impactful positions. We take pride in fostering professional growth and connecting forward-thinking individuals with organizations that value innovation and excellence. We look forward to showcasing your expertise in a way that resonates with our clients and opens the door to meaningful opportunities.