HWIL Software Engineer

Job Title: HWIL Software Engineer

Job Description

We are seeking a skilled, mission-driven engineer who specializes in Interceptor Communications. This role requires advanced technical skills and expertise in developing, integrating, and testing air defense hardware and software in a Hardware-in-the-Loop (HWIL) facility. Your primary responsibility will be to ensure the end product delivered to the Government is reliable, safe, and mission ready. The ideal candidate must be familiar with System Performance Specifications (SPS) and the Verification, Validation, and Accreditation (VVA) process as the product transitions from concept and design to production and fielding.

Responsibilities

• Supervise the setup and operation of a Hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL) missile interceptor laboratory.
• Ensure all simulation assets can communicate within the network environment and troubleshoot problems as they arise.
• Assist with integrating hardware and software subsystems and evaluating test plans.
• Review Engineering Change Requests (ECR) and participate in an Engineering Review Board (ERB) with the Government subject to procedures within a Configuration Management Plan (CMP).
• Create and present technical reports briefing the Government on milestone progress.
• Provide technical recommendations based on product test performance.
• Understand the entire missile integrated kill chain sequence and simulate message traffic in real-time.
• Have a basic understanding of how an Engagement Calculator (EC) functions within C2 software.
• Serve as the technical lead and subject matter expert on missile defense engagement calculators (ECs), with emphasis on integrated kill chain optimization.
• Develop, refine, and validate engagement logic for IBCS.
• Support sensor fusion, track correlation, and cross-domain shooter allocation using IBCS's integrated architecture.
• Analyze and recommend improvements to interceptor pairing, shot doctrine, and engagement timelines.
• Lead or support Verification, Validation, and Accreditation of engagement planning tools in test and operational environments.
• Collaborate with U.S. Army and industry partners to evaluate and integrate engagement logic into distributed defense architectures.
• Ensure software code meets Department of Defense (DoD) standards for cybersecurity, anti-tamper, safety, and quality.
• Author and maintain technical documentation and briefings in support of program reviews and compliance requirements.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to a culture of technical excellence and continuous improvement.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, or related field.
• 8+ years of experience in missile defense or integrated air and missile defense.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience with IBCS, including Fire Control Network operations, IBCS track management, and sensor-to-shooter pairing logic.
• Deep understanding of engagement planning algorithms, launch-on-remote, launch-on-track, and weaponization rules.
• Proficiency in systems modeling and analysis tools (e.g., MATLAB, AFSIM, Python, or similar).
• Familiarity with MIL-STD software and hardware integration practices.
• Active DoD Secret clearance.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, or related field.
• Prior operational or development experience supporting IBCS flight tests, FTXs, or lab-based system integration.
• Familiarity with Modular Open Systems Architecture and sensor fusion strategies.
• Experience in real-time engagement execution environments, simulations, or warfighter training systems.
• Certifications: PMP or equivalent.
• Strong technical writing and communication skills for engagement with government and industry leadership.

Work Environment

Initially, the role will be remote for a few months, transitioning to an in-office position in Research Park, four days per week. The company focuses on delivering tested and proven technical solutions, closing capability gaps for the U.S. Government and commercial sector enterprises.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Huntsville, AL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $64.00 - $96.00/hr.

• 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 hybrid position in Huntsville,AL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 4, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications withoutregard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability,sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protectedby law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification oradjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability,please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in thecity and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicantswith arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as acondition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this lawshall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):

We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process,including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applicationsand qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, youacknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.