Software Engineer with Security Clearance

Worker Type Regular Job Description Summary The Software Engineer will play a critical role in designing, deploying, and maintaining advanced DevOps pipelines and high‑performance computing environments that support C++ and Python applications. This position blends deep Kubernetes expertise, GPU optimization, automated testing, and cross‑team collaboration to ensure reliable, scalable, and mission‑ready software systems. The engineer will troubleshoot complex issues, enhance system performance, and contribute to the evolution of modern, containerized software architectures. Position Responsibilities * Configure and optimize GPU resources for performance‑critical workloads using CUDA or related technologies.* Design and maintain DevOps pipelines for C++ and Python applications, including Kubernetes deployments, Helm chart creation, and pod configuration.* Identify and resolve software defects using effective debugging and troubleshooting techniques.* Implement automated testing and CI/CD pipelines using tools such as Jenkins or GitLab CI/CD.* Manage and configure Kubernetes clusters to ensure high availability, scalability, and security across environments.* Maintain comprehensive technical documentation for designs, processes, and interfaces to support long‑term project continuity.* Work closely with cross‑functional teams-including system architects and project managers-to ensure timely, requirement‑aligned software delivery. Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience) * Bachelor's degree in the field of Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering or related field is required or equivalent experience* 20+ years' experience designing, developing, and implementing software solutions.* Adaptability and commitment to continuous learning in a rapidly evolving technical landscape.* Excellent communication and collaboration skills for working across technical and leadership teams.* Experience with GPU/CUDA development for performance‑critical applications.* Familiarity with message queues and communication protocols in distributed systems.* Knowledge of Linux system programming and development environments.* Understanding of RF signal analysis or satellite communications and the ability to apply these concepts in software systems.* Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities for diagnosing complex system issues. Salary Range: $170,000 - $214,000 The AV pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Determination of official compensation or salary relies on several factors including, but not limited to, level of position, job responsibilities, geographic location, scope of relevant work experience, educational background, certifications, contract-specific affordability, organizational requirements, alignment with local internal equity as well as alignment with market data. Clearance Level Top Secret with Poly ITAR Requirement: T his position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations ("ITAR") and/or the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR"). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment's determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment's business requirements. A "U.S. person" according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements. Benefits: AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: http://www.avinc.com/myavbenefits . We also encourage you to review our company website at http://www.avinc.com to learn more about us. Principals only need apply. NO agencies please. Who We Are Based in California, AeroVironment (AVAV) is a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Founded in 1971 by celebrated physicist and engineer, Dr. Paul MacCready, we've been at the leading edge of technical innovation for more than 45 years. Be a part of the team that developed the world's most widely used military drones and created the first submarine-launched reconnaissance drone, and has seven innovative vehicles that are part of the Smithsonian Institution's permanent collection in Washington, DC. Join us today in developing the next generation of small UAS and tactical missile systems that will deliver more actionable intelligence to our customers so they can proceed with certainty - and succeed. What We Do Building on a history of technological innovation, AeroVironment designs, develops, produces, and supports an advanced portfolio of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense and allied military services use the company's hand-launched UAS to provide situational awareness to tactical operating units through real-time, airborne reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition. We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status. ITAR