Bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant technical field such as Electrical Engineering or Computer Science.
At least 10 years of experience in software engineering for automated test equipment and systems integration.
Proven track record in architecting complex software systems interfacing with hardware.
Strong programming skills in LabVIEW and/or Python for test automation and data acquisition.
Experience with LiDAR instrumentation and communication standards like SCPI and VISA.
Solid understanding of communication protocols including TCP/IP and UART.
Hands-on experience with laboratory integration and adherence to safety protocols.
Responsibilities
Lead the architecture and design of software for Bench Checkout Equipment (BCE).
Develop instrument control and monitoring capabilities for NASA's EDGE mission.
Ensure reliable data acquisition and processing for integration and test equipment.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver maintainable and verifiable software.
Establish technical direction and software architecture for the BCE project.
Manage software interfaces, test procedures, and engineering documentation.
Coordinate technical discussions and resolve complex integration challenges.
Benefits
Opportunity to work on NASA's Earth Dynamics Geodetic Explorer mission.
Engagement with cutting-edge technology in aerospace instrumentation.
Collaboration with multidisciplinary engineering teams.
Potential for professional growth in a high-stakes environment.
Hands-on experience with advanced testing and validation processes.
Full Job Description
ES234 Principal Software Engineer - EDGE
We are seeking a Principal Software Engineer to lead the architecture, design, development, integration, and verification of software for the Bench Checkout Equipment (BCE) supporting NASA's Earth Dynamics Geodetic Explorer (EDGE) mission. This position requires an experienced technical leader with deep expertise in automated test equipment, precision instrumentation, hardware control, and complex system integration.
The Principal Software Engineer will establish the BCE software architecture and technical direction, lead the development of instrument control and monitoring capabilities, and ensure reliable data acquisition, processing, product generation, and communications with Integration and Test (I&T) Ground Support Equipment. The successful candidate will work closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver robust, maintainable, and verifiable software that meets the project's technical, interface, and quality requirements for a NASA Class C mission.
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor's or master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Optics, or a closely related technical field.
At least 10 years of professional experience in software engineering for automated test equipment, hardware validation, systems integration, precision instrumentation, or related engineering systems.
Demonstrated experience architecting and delivering complex software systems that interface directly with hardware and laboratory instrumentation.
Strong programming expertise in LabVIEW and/or Python, including hardware control, test automation, data acquisition, data analysis, and orchestration of automated test sequences.
Demonstrated experience integrating and controlling LiDAR instrumentation or LiDAR test equipment.
Extensive experience with instrument communication standards and interfaces, including SCPI and VISA.
Strong understanding of TCP/IP, UDP, and serial communications, with experience working with protocols such as UART, SPI, IC, and CAN/CAN-FD as applicable.
Experience developing and managing software interfaces, ICDs, test procedures, and engineering documentation.
Hands-on experience with laboratory integration and troubleshooting, including adherence to ESD and laser safety protocols.
Ability to lead technical discussions, resolve complex integration problems, communicate design decisions, and coordinate effectively across multidisciplinary teams.
US Citizenship required.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Tier 1 Investigation through NASA.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience supporting NASA missions, aerospace instrumentation, satellite payloads, or other high-reliability scientific systems.
Experience with laser altimetry, optical instrumentation, ranging systems, waveform digitization, precision timing, or laser communication systems.
Proficiency in C++ or MATLAB in addition to LabVIEW or Python.
Experience with hardware-in-the-loop testing, automated verification frameworks, and instrument performance characterization.
Familiarity with requirements traceability, configuration management, formal design reviews, and verification processes for NASA Class C missions.
Experience leading software architecture and technical integration across multiple hardware and software subsystems.
Experience with data-intensive instrumentation systems, high-throughput data acquisition, and robust data-product generation and transfer.
