Principal Software Engineer - Secure Communications

Date Posted: 2026-07-20 Country: United States of America Location: US-IN-FT WAYNE-150A ~ 1010 Production Rd ~ BLDG 150A Position Role Type: Onsite U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements: Active and transferable U.S. government issued security clearance is required prior to start date.​ U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance​ Security Clearance Type: Secret - Current Security Clearance Status: Active and existing security clearance required on day 1 Job Description At RTX, the world's largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world’s most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world. Collins Aerospace is a leader in technologically advanced, intelligent solutions that help redefine the aerospace and defense industry. With a comprehensive portfolio and deep technical expertise, we help customers meet the demands of the global market. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. Our Crypto team in the Software Technologies directorate creates advanced embedded cryptographic capabilities for U.S. military communications products.  We regularly work with the NSA to ensure our military communications are resilient and secure. Through cross-functional collaboration with hardware, FPGA, and software teams, our team ensures the seamless integration of our technology into military communication products.  As a Principal Software Engineer joining our team,  you will play a key role in the design, development, integration, and verification of our secure embedded software. This includes features such as device management, reprogramming, key management and encryption algorithms. Proficiency in C++ or Rust, Python, and embedded Linux is crucial for rapid integration into our projects. While experience with secure systems, secure software development, or cryptographic applications is preferred, it is not required. The ideal candidate will consistently deliver superior results, ensuring project milestones are met while fostering a positive work environment. You should thrive in collaborative team settings, both in-person and through technology, and possess demonstrated expertise in integrating system hardware and software components.  This position is onsite in Fort Wayne Indiana. Sign-on Bonus Eligible What YOU will do:   Champion Embedded Software Development and Integration: Lead design and develop advanced embedded cryptographic solutions and communication products, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.  Design Scalable Software Architectures: Architect the development of secure, multi-threaded embedded C++ or Rust codebases, advancing software architecture through innovative solutions.  Steer Project Success: Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define comprehensive requirements, oversee software implementation, and drive test case development, verification test execution, and certification processes.  Mentor and Inspire: Cultivate a high-performing engineering culture by mentoring and empowering software developers, enhancing technical expertise and promoting best practices for process improvement. Elevate Security and Reliability: Take a proactive role in shaping products that significantly enhance the security and reliability of critical communications systems, influencing best practices and guiding the direction of future innovations.  Qualifications You Must Have:  Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and minimum 8 years prior relevant experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 5 years of experience  Active and transferable U.S. government issued security clearance - current, is required prior to start date. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance  Embedded software development and integration experience with, C, C++, or Rust.  Software development and integration experience on complex multi-threaded product software code bases.  Experience with standard full lifecycle software development practices and configuration management tools.  Qualifications We Prefer:  Knowledge and experience in embedded security software development and integration.  Comfortable working in a Linux development environment, with experience in mutexes, semaphores, queues, and inter-process communication.  Exposure to secure software and crypto algorithms and their implementation  Ability to mentor engineers on software development skills and practices.  Strong desire to collaborate in a team environment, with experience in Agile methodologies.  Proven track record of meeting project milestones and driving process efficiency improvements.  Experience leading teams and managing projects through the full software lifecycle.  Proficiency in scripting languages like Python and experience with IP networking and networking protocols. What We Offer: Some of our competitive benefits package includes:  Medical, dental, and vision insurance Three weeks of vacation for newly hired employees Generous 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds and separate employer retirement contribution, including a Lifetime Income Strategy option Tuition reimbursement program Student Loan Repayment Program Life insurance and disability coverage Optional coverages you can buy pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal, ID theft protection Birth, adoption, parental leave benefits Ovia Health, fertility, and family planning Adoption Assistance