Overview: 

We are seeking a Senior Principal Engineer to join our team in Arlington, VA. Candidates should hold a BS (15+ years), MS (12+ years), or PhD (9+ years) with a proven record of leading high-complexity, high-impact proposals and projects. You will architect cross-program capabilities and drive strategic initiatives.

Our environment emphasizes innovation, high technical standards, and an entrepreneurial mindset. Team members are encouraged to contribute ideas, take ownership of their work, and help shape solutions to complex national-level challenges.

Job Functions and Responsibilities

  • Architect cross-program communications and networking capabilities with strategic impact
  • Lead the most complex command-and-control interfaces, simulations, and visualizations spanning organizations
  • Champion advanced algorithms for signal processing, autonomy, and embedded systems; set company-wide standards
  • Direct integration strategies for distributed or real-time systems across programs; ensure robust performance
  • Lead high-impact proposal efforts and strategic initiatives; influence technical roadmaps company-wide

Required Skills and Attributes

  • BS or MS in computer science, engineering, applied math/physics, or a related field
  • Fluency in C++, Rust, Python, or other modern programming languages
  • Experience developing on Linux platforms
  • Experience using modern software engineering tooling, such as git, CI pipelines, Docker, Kubernetes, and Unity
  • Strong understanding of software design principles and user experience considerations
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Defense Secret Security Clearance

Preferred Skills and Attributes 

  • Background or interest in autonomy, networking, embedded systems, or communications theory
  • Familiarity with IP/TCP/UDP networking and serial communication protocols
  • Experience with NoSQL databases (e.g., MongoDB)
  • Experience with Zynq SoC platforms, microcontrollers, FPGAs, VHDL, or embedded development
  • Experience with autonomy or robotics frameworks such as ROS
  • Experience with numerical algorithms, modeling, or real-time systems
  • Fluency with TypeScript and front-end web development frameworks such as React, Angular, or Vue

APS, a wholly owned subsidiary of the General Dynamics Corporation, offers competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and comfortable working conditions. Candidates must possess or be able to obtain a DoD security clearance. Please note, obtaining a security clearance is a condition of employment which typically requires US citizenship and a thorough background investigation. 

Qualified applicants are invited to submit a resume and application online at www.aphysci.com, fax them to 860-495-1744, Attn: Human Resources, or mail to the company address. Please reference the requisition number and title of the position in the subject line of your submission.

EOE: Vet/Disability

Invitation to Self-Identify
In keeping with our commitment to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO), Applied Physical Sciences invites all applicants to self-identify pre-offer as a protected veteran.

Invitation to Self-Identify as Protected Veteran
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Job Category: Software Engineering
Job Type: Full Time
Job Location: Arlington VA

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We are an equal opportunity employer. Applicants are considered for positions without regard to veteran status, uniformed service member status, gender, marital status, race, color, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information or any other category protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

THIS COMPANY IS AN AT-WILL EMPLOYER AS ALLOWED BY APPLICABLE STATE LAW. THIS MEANS THAT REGARDLESS OF ANY PROVISION IN THIS APPLICATION, IF HIRED, THE COMPANY OR I MAY TERMINATE THE EMPLOYMENT RELATIONSHIP AT ANY TIME, FOR ANY REASON, WITH OR WITHOUT CAUSE OR NOTICE. NOTHING IN THIS EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION, THE EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK NOR IN ANY OF THE COMPANY'S POLICIES SHALL BE DEEMED TO CONSTITUTE A CONTRACT OF EMPLOYMENT.

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I understand and agree that the information provided in this application will be relied upon by General Dynamics Applied Physical Sciences Corp. in considering me for employment, and I certify that all information provided is true, complete and correct and that I have not knowingly omitted any requested information. I further understand that any false or misleading statements or omissions made by me on this application or any other company records may subject me to immediate dismissal at any time during my employment.
I hereby authorize General Dynamics Applied Physical Sciences Corp. to make a thorough investigation of my current or former employment and activities. I agree to cooperate in such investigation and I release General Dynamics Applied Physical Sciences Corp. and any person or organization supplying information to General Dynamics Applied Physical Sciences Corp. in connection with such investigation, of and from liability in connection with the furnishing or use of such information.
If employment is obtained under this application, I will willingly comply with all orders, rules, regulations and standards of conduct required by General Dynamics Applied Physical Sciences Corp. and will agree to abide by General Dynamics Standards of Business Ethics and Conduct.
I further understand that as a condition of employment by General Dynamics Applied Physical Sciences Corp., I must comply with security procedures of the Company and must receive and retain necessary government security clearances, which may require completion of a government Personal Security Questionnaire and fingerprinting.