The Principal Software Engineer, Connectivity is the technical authority responsible for the architecture, design strategy, and technical execution of RAVE Aerospace AeroConnect In-Flight Connectivity (IFC) software platform. In this role, the individual will be supported by a team of engineers who contribute to the execution of development and testing activities. This individual operates as the primary technical leader for the Connectivity product line, partnering closely with Engineering Leadership, Product Management, Systems Engineering, and international teams to deliver scalable, certifiable, and field-ready solutions.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Architect solutions across aircraft networks, satellite/air-to-ground connectivity, cabin systems, and ground interfaces
- Translate product and airline requirements into scalable, certifiable technical designs
- Lead the Software Development of the Connectivity products for deployment into the field
- Establish development standards, system interfaces, and integration frameworks for the Connectivity team
- Lead software integration across hardware, network infrastructure, and aircraft systems
- Define unit testing, validation, and system verification strategies appropriate for IFC environments
- Support the key relationships within the organization for execution – Gilching office, Engineering Leadership and Product Management personnel
- Monitor issues, deviations or departures from commitments and solve or notify the appropriate stakeholders
- Identify and suggest resolutions for process problems
- Support customer visits, sales, and the program office as required
- Lead assigned resources in the overall performance of the group as well as mentor, manage and develop subordinates – supporting the Manager, Connectivity Engineering in this activity
Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field (or equivalent practical experience)
- 15+ years of experience developing and deploying software, with significant portion in embedded/networked environments
- 10+ years of experience with software project management and cross-functional collaboration
- Experience with C/C++ / Python /JavaScript / HTML / GoLang
- Proven success delivering high-quality software products within complex system environments
- Strong background in software integration, validation, and troubleshooting across hardware and software interfaces
- Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams in systems engineering, hardware, and network connectivity
- Demonstrated leadership experience, with the ability to mentor, manage, and develop technical teams, including onboarding new personnel
- Proven background in software development lifecycles, unit testing frameworks, and creating technical documentation
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills to manage issues, deviations, and process improvements effectively
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for collaboration across global teams (Engineering, Product Management, international offices) and for supporting customer-facing activities
- Prior management experience highly desired; aerospace or in-flight entertainment (IFE) industry knowledge is a plus
Benefits
The starting pay range for this position is $165,000 to $187,000 per year however, base pay offered may vary depending on skills, experience, job-related knowledge and location.
In addition to a comprehensive package of health benefits that include company contributions, Safran Passenger Innovations offers a variety of additional benefits and perks to enhance your work-life balance experience including but not limited to:
- A home allowance to elevate your home workspace
- Discretionary bonus program
- Future financial security with a 401(k) program with company match
- 9/80 work schedule with a hybrid work environment
- Paid time off covering vacations, personal time off and sick days, capped off by an exciting year-end holiday shutdown
Skills Required
- Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field (or equivalent practical experience)
- 15+ years developing and deploying software, with significant experience in embedded/networked environments
- 10+ years experience with software project management and cross-functional collaboration
- Experience with C/C++, Python, JavaScript, HTML, GoLang
- Proven success delivering high-quality software products within complex system environments
- Strong background in software integration, validation, and troubleshooting across hardware and software interfaces
- Experience collaborating with systems engineering, hardware, and network connectivity teams
- Demonstrated leadership experience mentoring, managing, and developing technical teams, including onboarding new personnel
- Proven background in software development lifecycles, unit testing frameworks, and creating technical documentation
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills to manage issues, deviations, and process improvements
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for collaboration across global teams and customer-facing activities
- Prior management experience; aerospace or in-flight entertainment (IFE) industry knowledge
What We Do
RAVE Aerospace is a global leader in in-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) systems for commercial airlines and aircraft manufacturers. Headquartered in Brea, California, the company provides award-winning hardware, software, and services that enable a seamless, intuitive, and connected cabin experience. Formerly known as Safran Passenger Innovations, RAVE Aerospace continues to innovate by combining consumer technology with avionics-grade performance to support airline operational needs and enhance the passenger flying experience.
