Software Engineer (onsite)

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
Full Time
Engineering
Mid Level
Job Title:Software EngineerJob Level: Experienced
Department:Engineering Reports to Title:Software Manager
Summary
The successful candidate will design, develop, test, and integrate embedded software for Palomar’s Intercommunication System. This role supports the development of our multi-level Secure Intercommunication System products—real-time, embedded solutions deployed on a wide range of military air, land, and sea platforms in support of secure mission-critical communications.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Software Development & Integration
  • Design, develop, test, and debug embedded software of low to medium complexity
  • Integrate software with hardware platforms and support verification and validation activities
  • Ensure software behavior meets defined requirements and functional expectations
Collaboration & Support
  • Work with systems, hardware, and test engineers to meet project objectives
  • Support system integration, testing, deployment, and updates for embedded software products
  • Participate in test planning, test execution, and software certification processes
  • Coordinate and participate in identifying, tracking, and resolving software issues
Tools, Documentation & Standards
  • Document technical designs, implementation details, and test procedures
  • Use standard development tools for version control, debugging, and simulation
  • Follow defined software processes, engineering standards, and company policies
  • Adhere to Palomar’s Code of Business Conduct and Ethics
Technical Competency
  • Apply working knowledge of C and/or C++
  • Understand RTOS concepts and embedded communication protocols (SPI, I2C, UART, Ethernet)
  • Manage tasks to meet deadlines and contribute to team deliverables
  • Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, within and across engineering teams
Qualifications
Level I $91,000 – $130,000
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering discipline (or equivalent combination of education and experience)
  • 0–2 years of experience as a Software Engineer or Embedded Software Engineer
  • Relies on established guidelines and direction to perform job functions
  • Works under general supervision and typically collaborates with more senior engineers
  • Works on problems of limited scope and complexity using known techniques and examples
  • Demonstrates initiative, attention to detail, and willingness to learn embedded systems
  • Comfortable using software development tools such as debuggers, version control, and IDEs
  • Familiarity with real-time or hardware-facing programming concepts
  • Effective communicator with strong organizational and documentation skills
  • Experience with military systems or software certification standards is a plus


Level II:   $105,000 – $147,000
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering discipline (or equivalent combination of education and experience)
  • 2–5 years of experience in embedded or real-time software development
  • Works independently with minimal supervision; sets priorities and meets deadlines
  • Solves moderately complex problems through analysis and judgment
  • Contributes to system-level discussions and collaboration across engineering disciplines
  • Provides informal mentorship to junior engineers and supports consistent development practices
  • Proficient in embedded software development using C/C++
  • Familiar with software development tools, test frameworks, and basic system integration
  • Exposure to safety- or mission-critical standards such as DO-178 or DO-254 is preferred
  • Demonstrates accountability, initiative, and the ability to balance multiple assignments


Level III Salary: $126,000 – $157,000
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering discipline (or equivalent combination of education and experience)
  • 5–8 years of experience in embedded software development for real-time systems
  • Leads the design and implementation of major features or components
  • Independently plans and execute work aligned with project goals
  • Collaborate with Systems and Test teams to resolve integration and interface challenges
  • Supports architecture development and code quality through design reviews and mentoring
  • Experienced working within regulated environments (e.g., aerospace, defense)
  • Familiar with safety-critical development practices and compliance standards (DO-178C, DO-254, DO-160)
  • Demonstrates technical leadership, communication, and the ability to work across teams


Level IV Salary: $136,000 – $170,000
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering discipline (or equivalent combination of education and experience); Master’s preferred
  • 8–12 years of experience in embedded software development, including work on certified systems
  • Drives technical execution across major program phases, from architecture through integration
  • Leads cross-functional coordination and supports interface with Program Management and QA
  • Recognized as a subject matter expert in embedded systems and real-time development
  • Guides teams in interpreting system requirements and shaping software solutions
  • Leads documentation efforts for compliance and supports audits or customer reviews
  • Deep experience with DO-178C (preferably DAL B or higher), DO-254, and DO-160
  • Demonstrates ownership, mentoring ability, and a strong track record of delivering on commitments
Work Environment
Work is performed near a production environment. The role may occasionally require lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling moderately heavy objects or materials (typically between 5 and 50 pounds). Essential job functions require the physical ability to stand, walk, bend, twist, reach, kneel, and, when necessary, use appropriate safety or protective equipment.
Occasional travel may be required, not to exceed 15%. Travel conditions will be discussed with the employee in advance to ensure appropriate accommodations are provided, if needed.

Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. This job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.
*Due to export control laws and government contract obligations, must be a US Citizen.*

*To comply with U.S. export laws and regulations, Palomar Products Inc. operations in the U.S. may only employ "U.S. Persons" as defined by the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).

**​Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Affirmative Action (AAP) Employer

Palomar Products is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, medical condition, national origin, marital status, disability, pregnancy or parental status, childbirth, genetic information, or military and veteran status. Request an Accommodation. Read further information regarding Affirmative Action narrative availability.

Palomar Products participates in E-Verify: Details in English and Spanish. Right to Work Statement in English and Spanish. EEO is the law. Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision.

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