Job Title: Software Architect
Job Description
We are seeking an experienced Embedded Software Architect to lead the design and development of cutting-edge embedded systems for this companys applications. The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in real-time software development, multicore processing, GPU-based systems, and safety-critical environments, combined with a passion for innovation in the aerospace industry. The work shall be performed in conformance with the product roadmap, standards, and processes applicable to the aeronautical industry.
Responsibilities
- Design and define software architecture for embedded systems in aerospace applications, adhering to safety-critical standards (e.g., DO-178C, DO-330).
- Integrate multicore processors and GPU-based systems to enhance performance, real-time graphics processing, and computational capabilities.
- Develop technical specifications, architectural documentation, and high-level system designs.
- Ensure all software architectures meet aerospace safety and certification requirements, including functional safety, redundancy, and fail-safe mechanisms.
- Work with regulatory bodies and certification teams to align the architectures with industry standards (e.g., ARINC 653, RTCA/DO-254).
- Evaluate and select appropriate real-time operating systems (RTOS), microcontrollers, GPUs, and software frameworks for aerospace systems.
- Identify and integrate best practices for secure and reliable software development in the aerospace sector.
- Oversee the design and implementation of critical software components, including device drivers, GPU frameworks, communication protocols, and application layers.
- Collaborate with hardware design teams to ensure seamless hardware-software integration, leveraging GPU and multicore architecture advantages.
- Define and implement rigorous testing strategies, including simulations, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing, software-in-the-loop (SIL) testing, and multicore/GPU performance validations.
- Lead debugging efforts for hardware-software interactions, GPU driver optimizations, and system anomalies.
- Work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including avionics engineers, systems architects, and product managers, to translate requirements into robust software solutions.
- Participate in design reviews and technical audits.
- Provide technical guidance and mentorship to software development teams.
- Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and adherence to aerospace best practices.
Essential Skills
- Proficiency in programming languages such as C, C , and Python.
- In-depth knowledge of RTOS (e.g., GreenHills, VxWorks, FreeRTOS) and avionics software architectures.
- Expertise in multicore and GPU-based systems, including synchronization, workload distribution, and performance tuning.
- Knowledge of Graphical Processor Unit (GPU) architectures.
- Strong knowledge of communication protocols (e.g., ARINC 429, MIL-STD-1553, CAN).
- Experience with graphics frameworks and APIs such as OpenGL, GLX, and X Windows.
- Knowledge of CPU architectures and common peripherals (RAM, Flash, EEPROM, MMU, PAMU, serial ports, SPI interfaces, I2C, PCIe, etc.).
- Good understanding of the V-model for development, and of the requirement-code and requirement-test traceability principles.
- Familiarity with avionics systems, flight control systems, and navigation systems.
- Skilled with debugging tools, simulators, and testing equipment.
- Experience with model-based design tools (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, SCADE).
- Thorough knowledge of aerospace standards such as DO-178C, DO-254, ARINC 653, and ISO.
- Experience with certification processes for airborne software systems.
- Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Leadership and mentoring capabilities.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
- Minimum 12 years of experience in embedded software development and architecture, preferably in the aerospace or defense industry.
- Proven experience with real-time and safety-critical software development.
- Deep understanding of multicore processors and GPU systems, including task scheduling, resource allocation, and optimization.
- Experience with secure software development practices for avionics systems.
- Knowledge of emerging technologies in aerospace, such as UAVs and autonomous systems.
- Certifications such as DO-178C Practitioner or equivalent.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $40.00 - $65.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a hybrid position in Sugar Grove,IL.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on May 14, 2025.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email (%) for other accommodation options.