Software Engineer - Mid to Experienced Level (Maryland)

Fort George G. Meade Complex, MD – GG pay plan, grades 11/1 to 14/10. Open from 2026-08-10 to 2026-08-23.

About the role

NSA is seeking experienced Software Engineers to advance high-impact systems and teams. Tools and technologies evolve quickly, with responsibilities spanning the full spectrum of software development. Your work will protect the nation by providing U.S. policy and decision makers with critical, timely intelligence, thwarting foreign adversaries, and defending vital networks.

As a Software Engineer at NSA, you can focus on virtually any area of computer science, including:

• Cybersecurity
• High-performance computing (HPC)
• Quantum computing research
• Data analytics
• Machine learning/artificial intelligence (ML/AI)
• Cryptology/cryptography
• Complex algorithms
• Large-scale platform development

The breadth of technologies NSA uses provides opportunities for broadening expertise and leadership growth.

Responsibilities

Common tools and areas of interest include:

• COBOL, C/C++, Java, Python, Rust
• Cloud computing (Amazon Web Services, Linux/VMWare)
• Front-end frameworks (Angular, React)
• Big data tools (PIG Analytics, PySpark)
• Agile development and CI/CD pipelines
• Containers (Docker, Kubernetes)
• ElasticSearch
• Microservices and Ansible
• Clusters and distributed systems
• Digital forensics and incident response
• Quantum technologies

Beyond technical skills, NSA seeks strong critical thinkers, collaborators, independent self-starters, continuous learners, and flexible contributors.

Requirements

• Degree in Computer Science (CS) or Software Engineering. Related fields (e.g., Engineering, Mathematics) may be considered if the program includes a concentration of foundational CS courses:
  • Algorithms
  • Computer architecture (not network architecture)
  • Programming methodologies and languages
  • Data structures
  • Logic and computation
  • Advanced mathematics (e.g., calculus, discrete mathematics)
• Relevant experience in the software development process, including:
  • Requirements analysis
  • Software design
  • Implementation
  • Testing
  • Integration
  • Deployment/installation
  • Maintenance
• Programming proficiency.
• Unofficial transcripts from all schools attended must be uploaded prior to applying.

Qualifications

Full Performance Level:

• Bachelor’s degree plus 3 years of relevant experience, or
• Master’s degree plus 1 year of relevant experience, or
• Doctoral degree with no experience.
• Associate’s degree plus 5 years of relevant experience may be considered for individuals with in-depth, clearly related experience.

Senior Level:

• Bachelor’s degree plus 6 years of relevant experience, or
• Master’s degree plus 4 years of relevant experience, or
• Doctoral degree plus 2 years of relevant experience.
• Associate’s degree plus 8 years of relevant experience may be considered for individuals with in-depth, clearly related experience.

Skills

Tools, platforms, and methodologies vary by team but commonly include:

• Docker, AWS, GitLab
• Open-source contributions (see code.nsa.gov)
• Relational and non-relational databases
• Languages: Java, C, C++, Python, etc.

Candidates with experience in COBOL or IBM mainframe are preferred. Ideal candidates will have specialized skills or interest in one or more of the following:

• Advanced mathematics (number theory, abstract algebra, linear algebra, probability theory, discrete mathematics)
• Data structures, algorithms, operating systems, and computer architecture
• Proficiency in C/C++, Python, and Java
• Cryptography (symmetric/asymmetric, hash functions, encryption, digital signatures, key exchange)
• Protocols like TLS/SSL and network security principles
• Hardware security modules (HSMs) and secure cloud platforms
• Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), intrusion detection systems (IDS), and vulnerability assessment tools
• Cryptographic libraries, APIs, and adherence to security standards (NIST, ISO 27001, OWASP)
• Teamwork, leadership, and strong interpersonal skills
• Prior Intelligence Community experience (preferred)

Pay

Salary offers are based on education level, years of relevant experience, and hiring manager input. Salary range varies by location, work level, and experience.

• Full Performance: $105,262 – $192,764
• Senior: $105,262 – $192,764

Training will be provided based on selectee’s needs and experience.

Benefits

NSA offers a comprehensive benefits package.

Schedule

Full-time position, Monday – Friday, with an 8-hour/day work requirement between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. (flexible).

If selected, you will serve a two-year DCIPS trial period (one year for veterans’ preference-eligible employees). Continued employment is contingent upon performance, conduct, and alignment with Agency needs.