Software Engineer - Mid to Experienced Level (Maryland)

Fort George G. Meade Complex, MD – GG pay plan, grades 11/1 to 14/10. Applications open 2026-08-10 through 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. Beyond technical skills, we need strong critical thinkers, collaborators, independent self-starters, continuous learners, and flexible contributors.

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 more. 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.

Unofficial transcripts from all schools attended must be uploaded prior to applying. Minimum qualifications require a degree demonstrating a concentration of computer science (CS) courses in foundational CS areas.

Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and enhance software systems using a wide range of tools and technologies, including but not limited to:
  • Languages: COBOL, C/C++, Java, Python, Rust
  • Frameworks: Angular, React, PIG Analytics, Pyspark
  • Methodologies: Agile development, continuous integration/continuous delivery (CI/CD)
  • Platforms: Cloud computing (AWS), containers (Docker, Kubernetes), Linux (VMWare), ElasticSearch
  • Domains: Digital forensics, incident response, quantum computing, microservices, Ansible, clusters
• Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to complex technical challenges.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver high-impact solutions.
• Continuously learn and adapt to evolving technologies and methodologies.

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
  • Advanced mathematics (e.g., calculus, discrete mathematics)
• Relevant Experience: Must be in the software development process, including:
  • Requirements analysis
  • Software design
  • Implementation
  • Testing
  • Integration
  • Deployment/installation
  • Maintenance
  • Programming

Experience Levels

• Full Performance:
  • 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, clearly related experience.
• Senior:
  • 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, clearly related experience.

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.
• Knowledge of cryptography, including:
  • Symmetric and asymmetric cryptography
  • Hash functions, encryption, digital signatures, and key exchange
  • Protocols like TLS/SSL and network security principles
• Familiarity with:
  • Hardware security modules (HSMs) and secure computing platforms (e.g., cloud)
  • Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) and intrusion detection systems (IDS)
  • Vulnerability assessment tools
  • Cryptographic libraries, APIs, and security standards (e.g., NIST, ISO 27001, OWASP guidelines)
• Experience with industry tools and platforms, including:
  • Docker, AWS, GitLab, open-source contributions (see code.nsa.gov)
  • Databases (relational and non-relational)
• Preferred experience with COBOL or IBM mainframe systems.
• Soft skills:
  • Teamwork and leadership
  • 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: $105,262 – $192,764 (Full Performance and Senior levels).
• Salary varies by location, work level, and relevant experience.

Benefits

NSA offers a comprehensive benefits package.

Schedule

• Type: Full-time position.
• Hours: Basic 8-hour workday, Monday through Friday, with flexible hours between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
• Training: Provided based on the selectee’s needs and experience.
• Trial Period: A two-year DCIPS trial period is required for all selectees, unless you are a veterans’ preference-eligible employee, in which case a one-year trial period applies. Continued employment is contingent upon successful completion of the trial period and certification that your employment advances the public interest.