Control Systems Software Certification Engineer (DO-178C)

About Pratt & Whitney Canada

Pratt & Whitney Canada (P&WC) is a global leader in aerospace innovation, proudly headquartered in Longueuil, Quebec, since 1928. We design and manufacture next-generation aircraft engines that power business, general aviation, and regional aircraft and helicopters.

For nearly 100 years, our teams have pushed propulsion technology boundaries to make flight more efficient and reliable, supporting important missions worldwide.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Control Systems Software Certification Engineer to support certification of safety-critical control system software for gas turbine engines, including both in-service and legacy-certified systems.

This role offers end-to-end exposure across the DO-178C lifecycle — requirements, design, development, verification, and certification — with opportunities to grow into technical leadership roles across engine programs.

Key Responsibilities

Software Development & Maintenance

• Develop and review software requirements, design, and code
• Work within both web-based requirements management tools and legacy environments (e.g., VAX-based systems, GPU)
• Contribute to code development in Assembly, Ada, C/C++, and other relevant languages

Certification & Compliance

• Develop and review certification artifacts (plans, standards, procedures, compliance documents)
• Support certification activities including SOI audits and resolution of findings
• Ensure software activities comply with DO-178C guidelines

Verification & Validation

• Perform developer-level verification activities (reviews, analysis, testing)
• Support or collaborate on formal verification activities with internal teams and external partners
• Analyze and interpret test results to ensure compliance and performance

Configuration Management

• Support baselining, release documentation, and discrepancy tracking
• Participate in configuration control and change management processes

Testing & Integration

• Support testing activities across simulation, engine test benches, and flight testing
• Collaborate with internal teams and suppliers to ensure smooth execution of verification campaigns

Collaboration & Continuous Improvement

• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including controls, systems, and suppliers
• Drive process improvements based on lessons learned and program experience

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, Software, or Aerospace Engineering
• 5+ years of experience in controls, embedded systems, avionics, or gas turbine environments
• Strong experience working in complex control systems or safety-critical software environments

Technical Expertise

• Experience with RTCA DO-178C (or similar standards such as ISO 26262): certification planning and documentation, software development and verification in a compliant environment
• Experience with embedded software development, ideally including low-level programming (e.g., assembly)
• Familiarity with configuration management and defect tracking processes

Professional Skills

• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Demonstrated leadership potential and ownership mindset
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a systems-level perspective
• Proven ability to produce clear, structured technical documentation
• Results-driven, with the ability to prioritize and execute in complex environments

Assets

• Experience with engine control systems (FADEC or single channel)
• Knowledge of powerplant systems, sensors, actuators, and aircraft interfaces
• Experience working with legacy systems and long-life certified products

Why Join

• Work on highly reliable, safety-critical systems with real-world impact
• Gain exposure across the full certification lifecycle, from development to certification
• Collaborate with experienced teams in a technically rich environment
• Opportunities to grow into technical leadership or program roles

What We Offer

• Pension and savings plan with employer contributions
• Group insurance program
• Opportunities for advancement (career progression)
• Merit or recognition program
• Health and wellness program, including virtual health care
• Recreational and sports club
• Nearby daycares
• Transportation accessibility or public transit program and free parking

Please note this role can be based either in Longueuil, Quebec, or in Mississauga, Ontario. The policy is 5 days a week on site.

The selected candidate will be required to complete a criminal background check and any applicable clearances with respect to the handling and transfer of controlled goods. Employment is conditional upon the successful completion of these checks and obtaining the required clearances.