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Principal Software Engineer - Advanced Simulation & Training Systems (Onsite)

RTXSterling, COL6 LeadSeptember 11th, 2026
Principal Software Engineer - Advanced Simulation & Training Systems (Onsite)At RTX, the world's largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world's most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world.Collins Aerospace is a leader in technologically advanced, intelligent solutions that help redefine the aerospace and defense industry. With a comprehensive portfolio and deep technical expertise, we help customers meet the demands of the global market. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.Role Description:We are searching for a Principal Software Engineer to join our team in Sterling VA within the Strategic Defense Solutions (SDS) business area.Our teams develop and build highly realistic simulators and training systems for both military and commercial customers. We deliver highly specialized training for some of the most demanding jobs in aviation. Devices range in complexity from desktop training all the way to high fidelity weapon system and full-flight training systems including full visual motion and simulator interoperability.In this position, you will become a technical subject matter expert for the design, implementation, and testing of complex multi-platform training device software and their associated user interfaces. This position requires a highly skilled individual who can step onto a team and quickly come up to speed on complex systems, who is also comfortable dealing with customers and program leadership. We are seeking a candidate who thrives in a team-oriented environment, demonstrates leadership qualities, and is passionate about mentoring peers and advancing technical excellence. Candidates with agile development experience and the desire to grow into agile leadership roles are strongly encouraged to apply! This position requires an active US security clearance. Most aspects of the job are done in a classified lab environment and requires a daily onsite presence.What You Will Do:Design, develop, integrate, and test software on cross-functional agile teams to deliver solutions within budget, scope, and schedule constraintsExhibit ownership of and accountability for committed objectivesAssist in analysis and decomposition of featuresMake and influence decisions which impact cost, schedule, and technical performance at a program levelHighly motivated software development focal who is able to drive strong technical solutions and decision makingPerform multi-threaded software debuggingWork independently with limited supervisionMentor early-career engineering peers to advance their ability to contribute to team objectivesDemonstrate leadership qualities in your everyday work - Be a positive focal for your team, recognize peers' accomplishments, and help onboard junior team members.Perform and lead bidding and proposal activities to support the acquisition of new businessContribute to software and systems engineering requirements capture and analysisTravel to domestic and international customer sites to support training events and product installationsQualifications You Must Have:Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and minimum 8 years prior relevant experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 5 years of experienceActive and transferable U.S. government issued security clearance is required prior to start dateMust have previous experience working with C++.Have experience with agile development practices and general software engineering design principlesWhat We Offer:Some of our competitive benefits package includes:Medical, dental, and vision insuranceThree weeks of vacation for newly hired employeesGenerous 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds and separate employer retirement contribution, including a Lifetime Income Strategy optionTuition reimbursement programStudent Loan Repayment ProgramLife insurance and disability coverageOptional coverages you can buy pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal, ID theft protectionBirth, adoption, parental leave benefitsOvia Health, fertility, and family planningAdoption AssistanceAutism BenefitEmployee Assistance Plan, including up to 10 free counseling sessionsHealthy You Incentives, wellness rewards programDoctor on Demand, virtual doctor visitsBright Horizons, child and elder care servicesTeladoc Medical Experts, second opinion programEligible for relocation assistanceAnd more!Apply now and be part of the team that's redefining aerospace, every day.