Avionics SQA Engineer – DO-178C Compliance (FAA Programs)

Pay: $60.00–$90.00/hour Schedule: 1st Shift Type: Contract Required Experience (Strict Filter) Candidates without hands-on DO-178C or DO-254 experience in aerospace/defense environments will not be considered. 10+ years of Software Quality Assurance (SQA) experience in aerospace or defense Direct, hands-on experience applying DO-178C and/or DO-254 on active programs Experience supporting software compliance, audits, and certification activities Position Summary This role is responsible for ensuring compliance of software development processes and deliverables with aerospace standards and regulatory requirements. The SQA Engineer will work closely with engineering, program management, and test teams to verify adherence to DO-178C / DO-254 and related standards across the full software lifecycle. This is a compliance and audit-focused role, not a software development position. Key Responsibilities SQA & Compliance Oversight Monitor and assess software development lifecycle activities for compliance with DO-178C / DO-254 Review and approve software plans, requirements, design, verification, and test documentation Ensure alignment with contractual, regulatory, and internal quality standards Audit & Process Assurance Support and participate in internal and external audits (including supplier audits) Evaluate software processes and identify gaps, risks, and noncompliance issues Track and support resolution of audit findings and corrective actions Program Support Interface with systems, software, test, and program teams to ensure process adherence Participate in change control boards and configuration management activities Quickly assess program risks, milestones, and compliance status Supplier & External Engagement Support audits of software suppliers (travel may be required) Interface with government and regulatory stakeholders (FAA, DoD, etc.) Leadership Mentor junior team members on SQA processes and compliance standards Required Qualifications (Must-Have) Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field 10+ years of aerospace/defense experience in Software Quality Assurance (SQA) Hands-on experience with DO-178C and/or DO-254 in a compliance or certification environment Experience supporting audits (internal, external, or supplier) Strong understanding of: Software development lifecycle (SDLC) Software verification and validation processes Configuration management and change control Ability to: Interpret technical documentation (requirements, design, schematics, contracts) Evaluate compliance of software processes and deliverables Communicate effectively with engineering teams and leadership Preferred Qualifications Experience with FAA or DoD programs Familiarity with: ARP4754A RTCA DO-278A MIL-STD-498 Background in embedded systems or avionics software Prior experience auditing software suppliers Important Notes This is not a software development or AI/ML role Candidates must demonstrate clear SQA and compliance experience on their resume Experience limited to coding or testing without compliance/audit responsibility will not be considered