Principal Systems Software Engineer - Jet Engine Test Cells
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 14, 2026. First seen by Alion on Oct 13, 2026.
Overview
Calspan JETS is the world’s premier supplier of ground-based testing solutions for the aerospace industry. We deliver highly engineered facilities, electro-mechanical systems, and software specifically designed for jet engine testing. These solutions are used by airlines, OEMs, and MRO businesses to ensure the global fleet of jet engines tested daily are safe to fly.
Why Join Calspan JETS? At Calspan JETS, we foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous growth. As a member of our integrated team, you'll be an important part of an environment where people are passionate about delivering robust solutions and complex systems.
The Principal Systems Software Engineer will play a critical role in designing, developing, and maintaining Linux-based software solutions for the Data Acquisition and Control System (DACS) used in jet engine testing. This role involves architecting new features, optimizing system performance, integrating modern measurement hardware to enhance testing capabilities, providing technical leadership, maintaining comprehensive system documentation and adhering to best practices in software development and deployment.
9/80 work schedule available (every-other Friday off)! This position is on-site at our newly renovated St. Paul location.
Every single thing we do with our customers and employees is based upon our goal of being selective to join and difficult to leave. We operate with a core set of values surrounding inclusiveness, accountability and innovation. Do you have what it takes to Be Calspan?
Responsibilities
Core Responsibilities Listed Below - Compensation and position level commensurate with education and experience.
- Design and Develop Software Solutions: Architect, design, and implement software tools and systems to maintain and enhance the Linux-based Data Acquisition and Control System (DACS) used in the testing of jet engines, ensuring seamless integration with new hardware and improving system functionality.
- Troubleshoot and Optimize System Performance: Identify, diagnose, and resolve performance bottlenecks and functional issues within the DACS environment, continuously improving the overall reliability and efficiency of the software.
- Collaborate with Cross-Functional Teams: Work closely with other software engineers, hardware engineers, and engineering leadership to develop and deliver new features for the DACS, ensuring the system interfaces effectively with various instrumentation, measurement equipment, and other test facility hardware
- Lead and Mentor Software Engineering Team: Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior and mid-level engineers, guiding best practices in software development, architecture, and troubleshooting.
- Integrate Modern Measurement Hardware: Develop and implement software solutions on Linux to connect and communicate with modern measurement hardware, ensuring compatibility and enhancing the overall testing capabilities.
- Maintain System Documentation and Best Practices: Maintain comprehensive documentation of the software architecture, design patterns, and system configurations while enforcing best practices for coding, testing, and software deployment
Qualifications
Preferred Education / Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related discipline
- 10+ years of experience in computer programming or similar industry or;
- A combination of education and experience equivalent to the above.
Preferred Knowledge / Ability:
- Experience with C, C++, Labview, Python, or similar programming languages
- Experience with Bash, Make, CMake, and Git
- Experience in development for the Linux operating system
- Comfortable working with Atlassian tools (Jira & Confluence)
- Ability to read wiring diagrams and/or mechanical drawings
- Ability or experience with electro-mechanical systems
- Experience with logic controllers or similar programmable computer devices/resources
- Experience in structural programming, controls, data acquisition, and/or jet engine testing preferred
- Valid Driver’s License
- Valid Passport
- US Person
- Ability to travel up to 15%
Why join Calspan?
Be Calspan Culture
At Calspan, we promote an environment that empowers employees and encourages innovation. Our management team enables a strong sense of teamwork with each endeavor, where successes are shared and lessons are learned. The company’s talent brand, “Be Calspan”, incorporates our company values to Be Inclusive, Accountable, and Innovative and our commitment to drive every individual to - Be Developed, Be Balanced, Be Connected, Be Community and Be Recognized. Our culture promotes a positive atmosphere and competitive can-do method of action.
Great Benefits = Happy, Committed Employees
Retaining great talent is as important as finding it, so at Calspan, we take our employee value proposition of Be Calspan quite seriously. To us, that means offering competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, recognition programs and promotional opportunities. Our benefits include: Health Insurance, Health Savings Accounts, Flexible Spending Accounts, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Life Insurance/Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Short-Term/Long-Term Disability, 401(k), Hospital Coverage, Accident Coverage, Life Insurance Policy, Paid-Time Off, Company-paid Holidays, Bereavement Leave, Jury Duty, Military Leave, Employee Assistance Program, Educational Assistance Reimbursement , and Pet Insurance.
Calspan is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. Calspan supports safe and drug free workplace through pre-employment background checks and drug testing.
The salary range provided is a general guideline. Actual pay will depend on several factors, including, but not limited to, education, experience, training, and other applicable qualifications. Calspan is committed to pay transparency in compliance with applicable state and local laws.
All candidates must be eligible to work in the United States.