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Jobs · Engineering · Maryland

Software Engineer - Mid to Experienced Level (Maryland)

CNSS • National Security Systems · District Heights, MD · 1 wk ago
Engineering$105k–$193k/yrFull-time

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.

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 software development processes, including requirements analysis, design, implementation, testing, integration, deployment, and maintenance.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to solve complex technical challenges.
  • Continuously learn and adapt to new technologies and methodologies.

Requirements

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

  • 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:
    • 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 (requirements analysis, software design, implementation, testing, integration, deployment/installation, and maintenance) and programming.

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 and 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

  • 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 symmetric and asymmetric cryptography, including hash functions, encryption, digital signatures, and key exchange.
  • Familiarity with protocols like TLS/SSL and network security principles for secure communications.
  • Understanding of hardware security modules (HSMs) and secure computing platforms (e.g., cloud).
  • Experience with Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), intrusion detection systems (IDS), and vulnerability assessment tools.
  • Knowledge of cryptographic libraries, APIs, and adherence to 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), and databases (relational and non-relational).
  • Candidates with experience in COBOL or IBM mainframe are preferred.
  • Soft skills: Teamwork, leadership, strong interpersonal skills, and prior Intelligence Community experience.

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

  • Full-time position, Monday – Friday.
  • Basic 8-hour workday requirement between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. (flexible).
  • Two-year DCIPS trial period required for selectees (one-year for veterans' preference-eligible employees).

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