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Jobs · Engineering · Maryland

Software Engineer - Mid to Experienced Level (Maryland)

CNSS • National Security Systems · Harwood, MD · 2 mo ago
Engineering$105k–$193k/yrFull-time

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

About the role

NSA is seeking experienced Software Engineers to advance high-impact systems and teams. Tools and technologies used evolve quickly, with systems and responsibilities spanning the full spectrum. Beyond technical skills, we need strong critical thinkers, collaborators, independent self-starters, continuous learners, and flexible contributors. 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, and many others. The sheer breadth of technologies NSA uses provides countless opportunities for broadening your expertise and leadership growth.

Please upload a copy of your transcripts from all schools attended prior to applying for this position. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable at this stage. Minimum qualifications require a degree that demonstrates a concentration of computer science (CS) courses in foundational CS areas.

Responsibilities

  • Engage in the full software development lifecycle: requirements analysis, software design, implementation, testing, integration, deployment/installation, and maintenance.
  • Work with a variety of tools and technologies, including but not limited to:
    • Languages: COBOL, C/C++, Java, Python, Rust
    • Frameworks & Libraries: Angular, React, PIG Analytics, Pyspark
    • Platforms & Environments: cloud computing, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Linux (VMWare), Kubernetes, Docker, ElasticSearch
    • Methodologies: agile development, continuous integration/continuous delivery (CI/CD), microservices, Ansible
    • Domains: digital forensics, incident response, quantum computing, clusters
  • Apply advanced mathematics (e.g., number theory, abstract algebra, linear algebra, probability theory, discrete mathematics) to solve complex problems.
  • Develop and secure systems using cryptographic principles, including symmetric and asymmetric cryptography, hash functions, encryption, digital signatures, and key exchange.
  • Implement secure communications using protocols like TLS/SSL and network security principles.
  • Utilize hardware security modules (HSMs) and secure cloud computing platforms.
  • Work with Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), intrusion detection systems (IDS), and vulnerability assessment tools.
  • Adhere to security standards such as NIST, ISO 27001, and OWASP guidelines using cryptographic libraries and APIs.

Qualifications

The qualifications listed are the minimum acceptable to be considered for the position.

  • Degree: Must be in Computer Science (CS) or Software Engineering. Related fields (e.g., Engineering, Mathematics) may be considered if the program includes a concentration of courses in foundational CS areas: algorithms, computer architecture (not network architecture), programming methodologies and languages, data structures, logic and computation, and advanced mathematics (e.g., calculus, discrete mathematics).
  • Relevant Experience: Must be in the software development process and programming.

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 and no experience.
  • An Associate’s degree plus 5 years of relevant experience may be considered for individuals with in-depth experience clearly related to the position.

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.
  • An Associate’s degree plus 8 years of relevant experience may be considered for individuals with in-depth experience clearly related to the position.

Skills

  • Strong background in advanced mathematics (e.g., number theory, abstract algebra, linear algebra, probability theory, discrete mathematics).
  • Solid grasp of data structures, algorithms, operating systems, and computer architecture.
  • Proficiency in languages such as C/C++, Python, and Java.
  • Experience with industry tools and platforms, including Docker, AWS, GitLab, open-source contributions (see code.nsa.gov), and databases (both relational and non-relational).
  • Preferred experience with COBOL or IBM mainframe.
  • Teamwork, leadership, and strong interpersonal skills.
  • Prior Intelligence Community experience is preferred.

Pay

Salary offers are based on candidates' education level, years of relevant experience, and information provided by the hiring manager regarding the work level for the position. Salary range varies by location, work level, and relevant experience.

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

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

Benefits

NSA offers a comprehensive benefits package.

Schedule

This is a full-time position, Monday through Friday, with a basic 8-hour workday requirement between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. (flexible).

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