Job Title: Software EngineerJob Description
This role focuses on developing and integrating hardware-in-the-loop simulation interfaces for advanced avionics systems. You will collaborate closely with avionics hardware, flight software, and subsystem teams to define signal characteristics, design and implement control and data acquisition solutions, and ensure end-to-end functionality between avionics systems and spacecraft subsystem simulations. The position combines hands-on electrical hardware work with robust software development to create reliable, well-documented test and instrumentation systems.
Responsibilities
Collaborate with avionics hardware, flight software, and subsystem developers to define command and measurement signal characteristics between the avionics system and other spacecraft subsystems.
Identify and select appropriate digital, analog, and other control and data acquisition components for the simulation interface system to communicate effectively with the avionics system.
Develop software for signal control to send commands and receive measurements between the avionics system and subsystem simulations.
Install, integrate, and wire digital, analog, and other signal components required for the simulation interface system.
Integrate and test the simulation interface system with the avionics system and the overall simulation environment to verify end-to-end functionality.
Apply disciplined engineering practices for testing, configuration control, documentation, and project management throughout the development lifecycle.
Prepare and maintain technical documentation, including electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and software design diagrams.
Create and deliver design review presentations for peers, leadership, and external partners.
Work as a senior hardware-in-the-loop engineer within the avionics team, providing technical leadership and guidance in simulation interface design and implementation.
Essential Skills
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent education.
7+ years of experience in electrical hardware and software development.
Strong experience with hardware and software development for test and instrumentation systems, including both analog and digital domains.
Hands-on experience with electrical hardware design, integration, and troubleshooting.
Proficiency in C and C++ for embedded or systems-level software development.
Experience with Python for scripting, automation, and test development.
Experience with shell scripting for build, test, and automation tasks.
Experience using hardware test equipment such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, logic analyzers, function generators, electronic load banks, power supplies, and power analyzers.
Experience integrating and testing simulation interface systems with avionics or similar complex systems.
Ability to follow structured engineering test, configuration control, and documentation processes.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Experience with LabVIEW for test and measurement applications.
Experience with DAQmx or similar data acquisition frameworks.
Background in avionics hardware and flight software integration.
Experience working with digital and analog signal interfaces in simulation environments.
Familiarity with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation concepts and tools.
Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical documentation and design presentations.
Ability to collaborate effectively in a cross-functional engineering team.
Work Environment
You will work as part of the avionics team in a hands-on engineering environment that combines laboratory and office settings. The role centers on hardware-in-the-loop development, requiring frequent interaction with test benches, simulation equipment, and avionics hardware. You will regularly use test instruments such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, logic analyzers, function generators, electronic load banks, power supplies, and power analyzers, along with development tools for C/C++, Python, LabVIEW, DAQmx, and shell scripting. The position follows structured engineering and documentation processes and offers the opportunity to support long-term project work in a contract-to-hire arrangement over approximately 12 months.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Houston, TX.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $70.00 - $90.00/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 fully onsite position in Houston,TX.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on May 7, 2026.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:
Hiring diverse talent
Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
Ensuring growth opportunities for our people
Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we've helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC-with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.
Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.
