The Principal Software Developer role at SkyLine-X™ involves serving as a technical authority for software engineering in mission-critical air traffic management systems. This individual will lead the design and development of complex software solutions, driving architectural decisions and AI-assisted development strategies while ensuring compliance with safety, security, and regulatory standards. Key responsibilities include evaluating AI-generated outputs, establishing governance frameworks, mentoring engineers, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to align technical strategy with mission objectives. The ideal candidate possesses expert-level proficiency in C++, Python, or Qt, extensive experience in large-scale production systems, and a deep understanding of software architecture and distributed systems. Experience in regulated environments and influencing organizational technology strategy is preferred.
Skills
Python
C++
Qt
GitHub Copilot
ChatGPT
Roo Code
Docker
CI/CD
Kubernetes
AWS
Azure
Google Cloud
PostgreSQL
MySQL
MongoDB
Git
Jenkins
Prometheus
Grafana
Scrum
Agile
What you'll do
Lead the design and development of complex, mission-critical software systems for air traffic management.
Drive system-level architectural decisions and integration strategies for multiple programs.
Define and oversee strategic adoption of AI-assisted software development across teams.
Establish policies and governance for responsible AI usage in safety-critical systems.
Evaluate AI-generated outputs to ensure alignment with regulatory and operational requirements.
Mentor senior engineers, fostering technical growth and best practices in AI-assisted development.
What we're looking for
Must be a US citizen and able to obtain Public Trust security clearance
Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field with at least 12 years of relevant experience, or master’s degree with at least 10 years
Expert proficiency in C++, Python, or Qt for large-scale production systems
Extensive experience leading software architecture and technical strategy across teams or programs
Deep expertise in applying AI-assisted development tools and shaping their adoption professionally
Proven ability to evaluate, validate, and govern AI-generated code and outputs, identifying risks and vulnerabilities
Market check
Salary context
Competitive pay
How this pay compares to similar roles
Similar $184k
This role $184k
$119k
most similar roles pay here
$250k
This role pays more than
53%
of similar roles. Most pay
$154,250–$214,500
— the shaded band above.
At the midpoint, this role pays about
$184k
versus about
$184k
for comparable roles.
Based on 240 similar postings.
Employer
About Leidos
Leidos is an industry and technology leader serving government and commercial customers with smarter, more efficient digital and mission innovations.
Leidos currently has
214 open roles
on FindRole.
Listed pay typically runs
$107,900–$195,050
across 204 roles with salary data.