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Leonardo DRS
ยท
March 9, 2026
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Software Engineer

San Diego, CA
Full-time
Onsite
$92K/yr - $131K/yr
Entry, Mid Level
Leonardo DRS is a leader in mid-infrared laser light technology for various markets including defense and security. They are seeking a Software Engineer II to design and implement C++ software for instrument communication, hardware control, and user interface applications, while collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver integrated solutions.
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Responsibilities

  • Develop and maintain C++ software for instrument communication, hardware control, and GUI applications
  • Build and enhance Qt based user interfaces for scientific, industrial, and automation systems
  • Design reliable software components that interface with cameras, motors, power meters, wavelength meters, and other USB/TCP IP devices
  • Create Python automation scripts to support optical alignment and manufacturing workflows
  • Develop and maintain databases, image processing routines, signal processing algorithms, and optimization tools
  • Support robotic alignment stations and contribute to automation framework development
  • Build hands on skill in optical instrumentation, including assembling and aligning laser based optical bench setups
  • Participate in code reviews, follow best practices, and maintain clear technical documentation
  • Collaborate with cross functional teams (hardware, firmware, manufacturing, design) to gather requirements and deliver integrated solutions
  • Debug, profile, and optimize software for performance and reliability
  • Contribute prototypes to reduce technical risk and support design for manufacturability goals

Qualification

Required

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or related technical field or equivalent experience and a minimum of 2 years of experience
  • Solid understanding of modern C++ (C++11/14/17/20) and experience with CMake
  • Proficiency with Qt C++ for cross platform GUI development
  • Hands on experience with Visual Studio IDE for C++ development and debugging
  • Experience developing hardware support libraries and working with instrument communication protocols (SCPI, FTDI USB, Ethernet, Serial)
  • Familiarity with unit testing frameworks such as Catch2 or Google Test
  • Experience with Python and other scripting languages for automation, tooling, and data processing
  • Proficient in debugging, profiling, and performance optimization skills
  • Working knowledge of Git SCM, including branching workflows, pull requests, rebasing, merging, and common commands (add, commit, push, fetch, merge, cherry pick, stash)
  • Experience in agile development environments
  • Hands on experience with optical bench alignment and first order optics
  • Comfortable with multi threaded programming, concurrency, and real-time system development
  • Demonstrated problem solving ability, clear communication skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
  • U.S. Citizenship required
  • This position requires an active DOD security clearance or the ability to obtain such clearance within a reasonable time after commencement of employment

Preferred

Benefits

  • Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
  • Employer matching 401(k) retirement plan
  • Paid time off including vacation, holidays, and sick leave (including ant state-mandated paid sick leave)
  • Parental leave benefits
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Professional development support
  • Life and disability insurance coverage
  • Company contribution to a health savings account
  • Telemedicine
  • Legal insurance
  • Wellness programs that focus on physical, emotional, and financial well-being
  • Flexible work schedules with our 9/80 program
  • Competitive vacation
  • Health/emergency leave
  • Paid parental leave
  • Community service hours
Leonardo DRS is a manufacturer and designs advanced sensing, network computing, force protection, and high-performance defense technology.
Glassdoor
3.9
Founded in 1969
Arlington, Virginia, USA
5001-10000 employees
https://www.leonardodrs.com